Due to an active wildfire in the Ocala National Forest, a road closure is in effect along State Road 19, from County Road 314 to State Road 40, in Marion County.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the “large-scale” wildfire is located to the west of State Road 19 and north of State Road 40 in the Ocala National Forest. The wildfire is currently emitting smoke and may continue to do so overnight.
Those who live along State Road 19, between County Road 314 and Forest Road 86 (local traffic) can access State Road 19 at the north end by County Road 314. No traffic is permitted along State Road 19, between State Road 40 and Forest Road 86.
The following detours will be in place to guide motorists around the closure:
- State Road 19 – Northbound: Motorists wishing to head northbound along State Road 19 will be directed to turn left (west) onto State Road 40, turn right onto County Road 314A, and turn right onto Salt Springs Highway (County Road 314) before reaching State Road 19.
- State Road 19 – Southbound: Motorists wishing to head southbound along State Road 19 will be directed to turn right (west) onto Salt Springs Highway (County Road 314), turn left onto County Road 314A, and turn left onto State Road 40 before reaching State Road 19.
Motorists traveling in and around this area are reminded to reduce their speed and utilize low beam headlights in order to adapt to changing weather conditions. Visibility may deteriorate quickly, especially during the nighttime and early morning hours.