Brush Fire Continues to Burn on Hermit Island Near Great Falls

A brush fire on Hermit Island, located south of Great Falls Park in the Potomac River, has been burning since last week.

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) responded to the fire on Hermit Island on Friday, according to MCFRS spokesman Pete Piringer. Fifteen firefighters were on the island while others assisted nearby on land. Firefighters ferried equipment needed by boat to the island. Crews used a ‘floating’ portable pump and hundreds of feet of forestry hose and other equipment to contain the fire.

Firefighters searched the uninhabited island to confirm no one was at risk. The island has no structures and is only accessible by boat.

The National Park Service continues to monitor the fire in coordination with the county. Officials warn that smoke may be visible in the area for the next several days.

Hermit Island is located between Great Falls Park and Carderock Recreation Area. The small island is not inhabited. It is only accessible by boat. There are no structures on the island.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, however it was likely started by an unattended campfire that was not fully extinguished.

 

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