MARION COUNTY, Fla. – Residents in Marion County were ordered to evacuate on Friday after a 150-acre wildfire broke out near the Ocala National Forest, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
In a release, USFS officials said that the fire was burning near 11005 S.E. 1st Street and Nfs 60.
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An evacuation order was later issued for Highway 314 in east Marion County at 7:12 p.m.
As a result, the Reverse 911/Alert Marion emergency system was used to alert those who need to evacuate, USFS officials added.
Shortly afterward, Marion County Fire Rescue declared that the evacuation order was lifted, allowing residents back in the area.
However, firefighters are expected to remain at the scene overnight to monitor the fire.
In the meantime, the USFS announced that smoke was heavy in that area, thus urging drivers against using the route.
“Please continue to refrain from unnecessary travel on 314,” the release reads. “Expect continued smoke impact along the road over the next few days and drive accordingly, especially in the morning hours, as smoke may mix with fog and severely impact visibility.”
Data from the Florida Forest Service shows that as of 9:30 p.m. on Friday, the fire was about 50% contained.