MARION COUNTY, Fla. – State Road 19 reopened on Sunday evening after being closed for more than 24 hours due to brush fires, according to the Florida Department of Transportation.
The closure was in place from State Road 40 to County Road 314, south of Salt Springs, FDOT said in a news release.
The brush fire in question began Saturday afternoon along the shoreline of Lake George and within the Ocala National Forest, the release states.
“Law enforcement, along with FDOT crews, will remain staged tonight in the event conditions change,” officials said in their update.
Wildfire smoke can lower visibility on the roads. It is important for motorists to drive as safely as possible in these conditions. Visibility may deteriorate quickly, especially during the nighttime and early morning hours.
Drive with lights on low beam. Your lights help other drivers see your vehicle, so be sure they all work. Keep your windshield and headlights clean, to reduce the glare and increase visibility.
Slow down. Watch out for slow-moving and parked vehicles. Open your window a little and listen for traffic you cannot see.
Reduce the distractions in your vehicle. Turn off the radio and avoid using your cell phone. Your full attention is required.
Use the right edge of the road or painted road markings as a guide. Be patient – avoid passing and/or changing lanes. Signal turns well in advance and brake early as you approach a stop. If you must pull off the road, signal, then carefully pull off as far as possible and turn your hazard lights on.
Motorists are asked to drive safe, stay alert, and follow the detour in place.
FDOT
Report smoky road conditions to the Florida Highway Patrol by dialing *FHP (*347).
Note: This map depicts the general area of the fires and not necessarily an exact location.