A strong storm passed through Marion County on Thursday, toppling trees and causing power outages.
Multiple power lines, trees, and power poles around the City of Ocala were affected by the severe weather. In the aftermath of the storm on Thursday evening, Ocala Fire Rescue reported road obstructions in the following areas, among others: NE 10th Street and NE 28th Avenue; NE 19th Avenue and NE 17th Place; SE 17th Street; SE 27th Place / Highway 413A; SE 37th Court Circle; NE 25th Avenue and Jacksonville Road; and Fort King Street.
On its Facebook webpage, OFR posted pictures that show some of the damage that was caused by the inclement weather:
As of 3 a.m. on Friday, Ocala Electric Utility reported that there are still over 50 outages affecting nearly 1,160 customers. OEU crews are currently working to clear downed trees and power lines, as well as repairing damaged poles.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is cautioning motorists that traffic lights and railroad crossings may be out. MCSO wants to remind all drivers of the following rules:
- If the traffic light is flashing red, treat it as a stop sign.
- If the traffic light is flashing yellow, all drivers must proceed with caution.
- If the traffic light is out, the intersection must be treated as a four-way stop sign.