Brush fire smoke briefly closes I-95 in Melbourne

A brush fire in Brevard County briefly shut down the northbound side of I-95 Friday near Melbourne.

The fire started around 11:30 a.m. along the interstate by the Eau Gallie Boulevard exit, sending smoke over the interstate and causing visibility issues for drivers.

The Florida Highway Patrol shut down all northbound lanes for about a half-hour as fire crews worked to knock down the flames and clear the smoke.

If you encounter smoke while driving:

• Slow down.
• Use windshield wipers in heavy fog.
• Turn on your low-beam headlights.
• Pull over and stop if the smoke becomes too thick. Be sure to turn on your emergency flashers.
• Keep enough space so you can safely exit your vehicle without obstructing traffic.
• Report smoke to the nearest Florida Highway Patrol office.