A lightning strike ignited a brush fire near Interstate 95 in central Brevard County on Monday that created a smoke plume that could be seen for miles, officials said.

Florida Highway Patrol now says the brush fire may also force them to shut down I-95 late Monday night or Tuesday morning.

  • Officials: Lightning strike caused brush fire near I-95
  • Massive smoke plume could be seen for miles
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The fire, on a conservation area, had grown to more than 800 acres Monday evening.

Fire crews from Brevard County and the Florida Forest Service weren't able to access the fire, which is in marsh. The fire is in an area intentionally burned by a prescribed burn two years ago.

As of Monday afternoon, there were no structures in danger, although there was a mobile home park down the street.

West Cocoa officials were in touch with Florida Highway Patrol, because it's possible the smoke could impact I-95 in the overnight hours and into the morning commute. FHP says they may shut the highway down between Fiske Boulevard and State Road 520. 

Traffic may be heavy on Fiske Boulevard, Barnes Boulevard in Rockledge, US 1 and State Road 520 as a result. So plan accordingly.

Crews will intentionally burn this area tomorrow — using helicopters and flame torches to get rid of the remaining fuel.