180 acre Wildfire in Volusia County forces closure on I-4 westbound

DELAND, Fla. — The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services said a 180 acre wildfire in Volusia County has forced a closure of I-4 westbound at SR-44 near Deland.

The Florida Forest service has the fire 75percent contained. Firefighters used bulldozers and a helicopter to help contain the blaze.

“With Bike Week in the broader affected area, all travelers should closely monitor the media for updates on the reopening of I-4 and local roads," said Commissioner Nikki Fried. "We thank our brave Forest Service firefighters for working swiftly to control this wildfire.”

VOLUSIA I-4 UPDATE: The eastbound lanes of I-4 are re-opened. Westbound remains closed from I-95 to SR-44. Use caution in the area, as smoke still lingers. Troopers will continue to monitor the interstate. pic.twitter.com/NMXhkvDuPh
— FHP Orlando (@FHPOrlando) March 7, 2020

WILDFIRE ALERT: @FLForestService is responding to a 180-acre wildfire in Volusia County. The fire is 50% contained.

I-4 remains closed east/westbound at SR-44 and US-92 at this time, per Florida Highway Patrol.

Follow @FFS_Bunnell for updates. #MM123Fire pic.twitter.com/jA33s9xE6G
— FL Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services (@FDACS) March 7, 2020