Traffic reopened on S.R. 550 past Shoal Line Blvd.

Motorists, other than local residents, were advised to avoid the area west of Shoal Line Boulevard on State Road 550 on Friday as firefighters continued to contain a brush fire.

Shoal Line Boulevard, west of U.S. 19, was subject to intermittent closures throughout the day and only local residents were allowed through. However, by 6 p.m. the road was reopened and both Pine Island Park and Bayport Park were expected to be open through the weekend.

Still, smoke conditions were expected to continue on Hernando County's west end for the next 24 hours as the Bayport and Pine Island area smoldered from the remains of the 1,200-acre fire.

Residents with respiratory issues were cautioned to remain indoors and take proper precautions to avoid smoke exposure.

Officials believe a lightning strike sparked the blaze Wednesday night. Heavy winds Thursday afternoon fanned the flames into an inferno that threatened homes and prompted evacuations.

For more information, contact Hernando County Fire Rescue at 352-540-4353.