UPDATED: Wildfire causes closure of U.S. Highway 301

Press release from Florida Highway Patrol

Update: As of 7:20 p.m., all lanes are open.

HAWTHORNE, Fla. – A fire burning in the area of County Road 325 required U.S. Hwy 301 to be closed in both directions. For northbound motorists, CR 325 is available. Southbound traffic will be turned around near SE 179th Place. Please avoid the area if possible.

There is currently an active wildfire off U.S. Highway 301 north of County Road 325, south of Hawthorne, within Alachua County. This may affect travel on U.S. Highway 301 due to smoke on the roadways throughout the night and into the morning hours. Motorists are urged to use caution when traveling in the area as visibility may deteriorate quickly, especially during the nighttime and early morning hours. Motorists are reminded to reduce their speed and utilize low-beam headlights in order to adapt to changing weather conditions.