Wildfires in Miami-Dade: Current Status and Safety Tips
Smoke from wildfires in west Miami-Dade, near Doral, continues to rise, affecting local events. Photo by Alie Skowronski, Miami Herald.
Wildfire Containment Efforts
Three wildfires are still raging west of Miami as the holiday weekend nears, impacting Juneteenth celebrations and potentially affecting Father’s Day plans. Lightning ignited the fires on June 15, and emergency teams have been tirelessly battling the blazes. Despite efforts, the fires remain uncontained across several thousand acres.
Out of the four active wildfires, the Well 13 and Quarry 2 fires are 55% and 80% contained, respectively. Combined, they have scorched more than 18,000 acres, as reported by the Florida Forest Service. The Quarry 2 fire has caused road closures on southbound Turnpike lanes and led to evacuations near Krome Avenue.
In Everglades National Park, the 4,000-acre Coptic fire is less than 50% contained, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. Though efforts have helped improve air quality, the fires keep burning.
Impact on Air Quality
Data from AirNow.gov shows smoke moving north and slightly east, affecting fewer cities than before. The nearest monitor suggested that pollution peaked on June 17 and has since varied based on weather and containment efforts.
No new evacuation orders have been issued, although some residents evacuated voluntarily following Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office recommendations. An air quality monitor in Hialeah highlights the changing air quality near the wildfires.
Staying Safe from Wildfire Smoke
Residents planning outdoor activities during the holiday should monitor air quality, particularly those with heart or lung conditions, or in households with vulnerable groups like children or the elderly.
Drivers are advised to use alternate routes to avoid smoke on the Turnpike. The Environmental Protection Agency suggests staying indoors as the best method to minimize smoke exposure. Additionally, face masks like N95 or P100 respirators can reduce inhalation of particles.
Allison Beck, a Coral Springs News reporter, contributed to this report.