PUTNAM COUNTY, Fla. — A massive forest fire in the Ocala National Forest was caused by a lightning strike, the Florida Highway Patrol said.

The forest fire was actively burning approximately 800 acres near State Road 19 and National Forest Road 74 in Putnam County Thursday. 

The fire may impact travel on SR-19 throughout the day, night and into the morning hours, FHP said. 

Drivers in the vicinity are advised to exercise caution. According to FHP, visibility can rapidly decrease, particularly at night and in the early morning hours.

FHP wants to remind drivers to reduce their speed and use low-beam headlights to adapt to changing visibility conditions.