Brush Fires Disrupt Daytona 500 Traffic Across Central Florida

Wildfires close I-95 and impact travel for NASCAR's biggest race

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Several brush fires broke out across Central Florida on Sunday, closing Interstate 95 in both directions between Daytona Beach and Port Orange and burning 20 vehicles at a nearby campground. The fires are expected to affect traffic as racegoers leave the Daytona International Speedway following the Daytona 500 NASCAR race.

Why it matters

The Daytona 500 is one of the most high-profile sporting events in the state, drawing tens of thousands of fans to the Daytona Beach area. Any disruptions to travel and traffic in the region can have major impacts on the event and the local economy.

The details

The fires began with a vehicle fire along I-95 in Volusia County, which then spread to four small brush fires totaling 10 acres. The blaze also burned 20 vehicles at the Crazy Horse Campground near the Daytona Flea & Farmers Market. Firefighters are monitoring conditions in nearby neighborhoods, but no evacuations have been ordered at this time. In Osceola County, a separate brush fire broke out near Avenue A in Intercession City.

  • The fires began on Sunday afternoon.
  • By 4:30 p.m., all southbound lanes of I-95 in Volusia County had reopened.

The players

Volusia County

The county where the major I-95 fire occurred, impacting travel to and from the Daytona 500 race.

Osceola County Fire Rescue

The agency that responded to a separate brush fire in Osceola County on Sunday.

Daytona International Speedway

The racetrack that hosts the annual Daytona 500 NASCAR event, which was impacted by the regional fires and traffic disruptions.

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The takeaway

The brush fires in Central Florida highlight the ongoing challenges of hosting major events like the Daytona 500 amid extreme weather conditions and the need for robust emergency planning and response capabilities to minimize disruptions.