Everglades Wildfires Cause Smoke and Reduced Air Quality in South Florida

MIAMI, Florida – Smoke from the Mile Marker 39 and Sawgrass wildfires in the Florida Everglades is affecting areas in South Florida, including Miami Beach and Broward County. The Florida Forest Service reports that the Mile Marker 39 Fire has burned 1,600 acres with 0% containment, while the Sawgrass Fire has burned 250 acres, also with 0% containment.

The Miami Beach Fire Department cautioned that residents may notice hazy skies or the smell of smoke due to these wildfires. They stated that air quality may be unhealthy in portions of the city and advised vulnerable populations to avoid strenuous outdoor activities and limit time outside. For others, they recommended shortening outdoor activities until air quality improves.

The National Weather Service Miami office noted that particulate matter (PM 2.5) from the wildfire smoke scatters sunlight, leading to a vibrant reddish-orange sunrise, but also reduces air quality.  NWS Miami added that low visibilities continue across Broward County due to smoke from the Sawgrass and Mile Marker 39 wildfires, with visibilities varying greatly over short distances.

Air quality has reached unhealthy levels in parts of Broward County, including Fort Lauderdale, Plantation, Hollywood, and Pembroke Pines. Northwest winds are pushing the smoke toward coastal areas.

Authorities recommend checking AirNow.gov for updates and taking protective measures such as closing windows and using air conditioners on recirculate mode when in smoky areas.