“Evacuation Order Issued in Marion County Due to 150-Acre Wildfire, Confirm Fire Officials”

Residents in Marion County were instructed to evacuate due to a wildfire that erupted near the Ocala National Forest. The U.S. Forest Service revealed that the fire spanned 150 acres, prompting the evacuation order.

In a release, USFS officials said that the fire was burning near 11005 S.E. 1st Street and Nfs 60.

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.

The U.S. Forest Service released a statement cautioning against unnecessary travel on road 314. They advised drivers to be prepared for smoke affecting visibility in the coming days, particularly in the morning when smoke may combine with fog, creating hazardous conditions.

Data from the Florida Forest Service shows that as of 9:30 p.m. on Friday, the fire was about 50% contained.