MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – The U.S. Navy will continue inert bombing exercises at the Pinecastle Range Complex in the Ocala National Forest through Wednesday, potentially displacing wildlife and affecting traffic patterns in the area.
The scheduled test times are:
- Monday, April 7: 1:45 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
- Tuesday, April 8: 10:15 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, April 9: 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
While the bombs are not live, the noise and ground activity may drive wildlife into nearby residential or road areas. It’s a good idea to secure garbage, pet food, and other items that may attract them. If you’re driving in and around the forest, watch out for unexpected animal crossings.
The bombing range sits 15-20 miles west of a 500-acre wildfire currently burning in the forest. Although unrelated, both events could make it even more stressful for local wildlife and increase the potential for animal displacement.
More news that matters to you…
-
WORK WEEK WEATHER: Warm, Mostly Sunny with Late-Week Rain Chances for Ocala
Ocala will see highs in the upper 80s and mostly sunny skies through midweek, according to the National Weather Service. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to increase Thursday and Friday.