A large brush fire caused the closure of a portion of Interstate 75 in North Port on Saturday afternoon. 

The Florida Highway Patrol closed the road just before 1 p.m.  

Troopers have closed the interstate from exit 170 to 179 due to poor visibility from the fire's heavy smoke. 

Drivers are urged to find an alternate route.

Officials said the brush fire is in the area of Yorkshire and Raintree Loop on the east end of town.

So far, the fire has scorched nearly 3,200 acres and was 30 percent contained as of 8 p.m., according to the Florida Forest Service.

The fire has spread to Griffin Preserve which is located in DeSoto County.

No structure are threatened at this time.