Orlando fire shuts I‑95 near Port Orange; northbound lanes blocked
A brush fire in Volusia County forced the closure of northbound Interstate 95 near Port Orange on Sunday, blocking all northbound lanes and snarling traffic in the area. The closure came before 1: 30 p. m. ET as emergency crews worked to contain the blaze.
What happened and where
Fire crews closed northbound I‑95 at about mile marker 256, the State Road 421 interchange, after a brush fire spread close to the highway. The Florida Department of Transportation confirmed the northbound lanes were blocked to allow responders safe access and to prevent hazards for passing motorists.
The affected stretch sits roughly six miles from Daytona International Speedway, where a large event was underway. Southbound travel remained partially open; traffic camera views around 2: 30 p. m. ET showed vehicles moving through the southbound side in the rightmost two lanes while northbound traffic remained stopped.
Motorist impact and guidance
Commuters and travelers should expect delays and consider alternate routes if heading north through Volusia County. With northbound lanes closed, traffic is being funneled away from the interstate in the immediate area, creating backups on feeder roads and local streets. Drivers in the vicinity are urged to exercise caution, slow down near emergency responders, and avoid obstructing operations.
Officials have not released additional details on the fire's size or what sparked it. Emergency personnel on scene prioritized fire containment and public safety while assessing the best timeline for reopening lanes. Travelers planning to pass through the area are advised to allow extra time and to watch for updates from traffic authorities and local responders.
Timeline and ongoing situation
The closure was in place before 1: 30 p. m. ET; by about 2: 30 p. m. ET, cameras showed limited southbound movement but no northbound traffic. Firefighters focused on securing the perimeter of the brush fire and ensuring that embers or smoke would not endanger motorists. There were no confirmed reports of injuries or property damage shared by officials while crews were working.
This remains a developing situation. Emergency responders will reopen lanes only after the fire is contained and safety checks are complete. Motorists are advised to monitor traffic guidance for updates and to follow directions from law enforcement and fire officials at the scene.
