Brush fire on small Potomac island could bring smoke, smell to parts of DC area

Photo from September 24 shows smoke from fire on Hermit Island.

A brush fire on a small island in the Potomac River may produce a smoky smell Wednesday for some in the Montgomery County and Northwest, D.C. areas.

The fire was reported several days ago on Hermit Island, a rocky and uninhabited island in the Potomac about 3 miles west of the American Legion Bridge.

Photo from September 24 shows fire on Hermit Island.

Photo from September 24 shows smoke from fire on Hermit Island.

Photo from September 24 shows smoke from fire on Hermit Island.

Earlier this week firefighters used water on the fire and that it is contained to the island. Fire officials say they are monitoring the fire and will likely let it burn. They say there is no immediate risk of the fire spreading off of the island.

Officials say residents and commuters may see and smell smoke until the fire is out.

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