MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – The mandatory evacuation order for the Silver Springs Fire has been lifted, and residents are now being allowed to return to the area, according to Marion County Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service.

All previously closed roadways, including SE Hwy 314, have reopened, though officials ask that unnecessary traffic stay out of the area as emergency crews remain on scene.

Firefighters and structure protection teams from Marion County Fire and the U.S. Forest Service will stay overnight to monitor conditions and reinforce fire lines. Dozers and ground crews have successfully completed a perimeter around the fire, located east of Hwy 314, and are continuing to secure and strengthen those lines.

Safety Reminder:

  • Smoke may continue to impact Hwy 314, particularly during early morning hours when it may mix with fog and reduce visibility.
  • Drivers are urged to use caution when traveling in the area.

Officials praised the multi-agency cooperation that helped contain the fire and protect structures throughout the response. Further updates will be shared as needed.

Updated article, May 2, 2025, at 9:02 p.m.: A mandatory evacuation has been issued for residents near the growing Silver Springs Fire. The evacuation order includes areas near SE Highway 314, especially between State Road 40 and SE 1st Road, as the wildfire continues to move north-northwest.

Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies are actively assisting with evacuations. An AlertMarion reverse 911 notification has been issued to those in the affected zone. Residents are urged to evacuate immediately and heed all emergency warnings.

A reunification area has been established at:
Winn-Dixie, 15912 E. Highway 40, Silver Springs

Law enforcement is requesting no unnecessary traffic along SE Hwy 314 and surrounding areas, as heavy smoke and emergency operations continue. The structure protection group remains active along Hwy 314, supported by Marion County Fire Rescue and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS). Air tankers, bulldozers, and other firefighting equipment are currently being deployed.

Timeline of Key Updates:

  • 7:12 PM – Mandatory evacuation order issued; reverse 911 activated.
  • 6:52 PM – Fire is advancing toward Hwy 314; structure protection repositioned.
  • Earlier – USFS confirmed the fire is burning near 11005 SE 1st Street and NFS 60. Travel is discouraged in that area.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed by registering at AlertMarion.com and following official updates. This is a developing situation.

Originally published May 2, 2025, at 8 p.m.: SE Highway 314 is temporarily closed between SE 1st Road and State Road 40 due to an active fire in the area.

Marion County Fire Rescue is working alongside the Florida Forest Service to contain the blaze.

Lake Waldena fire. Courtesy: Bree Harrell/352today

Officials say the closure will remain in effect until the fire is fully under control and it is safe to reopen the roadway.

Drivers are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.

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