The Florida Highway Patrol is urging motorists in south Marion County to exercise extreme caution as an active wildfire creates hazardous driving conditions on U.S. Highway 301 and surrounding side roads.
The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) issued a motorist advisory Friday morning regarding an active wildfire burning near the intersection of U.S. 301 and SE 151st Street in Summerfield.
According to records maintained by the Florida Forest Service, the fire was approximately 80% contained as of 4 a.m. this morning.
Officials warn that the fire is expected to impact travel on U.S. 301, SE 151st Street, and other adjacent area roads throughout the day.
According to state troopers, smoke is likely to linger on the roadways into the morning hours and could become particularly dangerous during the nighttime when visibility can drop suddenly and without warning.
FHP is reminding all motorists to adapt to the changing conditions by staying alert, driving slower than the posted limit to allow for more reaction time, and using low-beam headlights through the smoke.
The Florida Forest Service and local fire crews are working to contain the blaze. Drivers are encouraged to seek alternate routes if possible to avoid delays or hazardous patches of heavy smoke.