Newman Dr Wildfire on Alligator Alley at 1,500 Acres

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. — Thick plumes of smoke continued to drift across Interstate 75 (Alligator Alley) Tuesday morning as crews battled the Newman Dr Wildfire in Picayune Strand State Forest.

The blaze, which erupted south of the highway on Monday, remains at approximately 1,200–1,500 acres with only 15% containment under dry, windy conditions.

Florida DOT Traffic Cameras Capture Heavy Smoke on I-75

At I-75 North at mile marker 85.0, heavy smoke reduced visibility while emergency vehicles with lights activated monitored the flow. Traffic moved slowly but steadily in both directions.

Farther west at I-75 North at mile marker 78.2, a thick haze blanketed the highway and surrounding tree line, creating near-whiteout conditions in spots.

Alligator Alley remains open to traffic, but the Florida Highway Patrol is urging drivers to slow down and use extreme caution between mile markers 78–100 where smoke is heaviest. Visibility can drop suddenly, and officials say the smell of smoke is noticeable for miles.

Evacuation orders (Level 3/GO) are still in effect for residences near Newman Drive, Stable Way, and areas east of Collier Boulevard. A shelter has been opened at the Golden Gate Community Center for displaced residents.

Florida Forest Service crews, along with local fire departments and aerial support, continue working the fire lines. No structures have been reported damaged, and no injuries have been announced. With no significant rain in the forecast, containment efforts are expected to continue through the night.