Loud booms possible as U.S. Navy hosts bomb training exercises at Ocala National Forest

Navy to test bombs in Ocala

The U.S. Navy is expected to begin testing bombs in Marion County from June 16 through June 22.

OCALA, Fla. - Naval Air Station Jacksonville has announced that the U.S. Navy will be conducting live bomb training exercises at the Pinecastle Range Complex in the Ocala National Forest from June 16 through June 22.

Training operations are scheduled to occur daily between 2 p.m. and 12:30 a.m., and residents in the area may hear loud booms during this time.

Officials are advising the public that wildlife may be temporarily displaced during bombing periods. Drivers traveling through the Ocala National Forest and surrounding areas should use extra caution.

Residents are also encouraged to secure any items around their homes that might attract wildlife. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reminds residents to stay alert for larger animals, including black bears,