Miami wildfire update: Emergency crews continue containment effort
Three wildfires continued to burn west of Miami heading into the holiday weekend, casting a haze over some Juneteenth celebrations and threatening to linger over Father’s Day.
Emergency workers from across Florida have been fighting around the clock to bring the fires under control in Miami-Dade County since a lightning strike set drought-dried brush ablaze near Doral on June 15.
But, with thousands of acres still ensnared, it’s unclear when the fires will be completely put out.
How contained are the fires?
Three of the region’s four known wildfires are still burning Friday.
Doral’s Well 13 and Quarry 2 fires are 55% and 80% contained, respectively. Together, they have burned over 18,000 acres of land, according to the Florida Forest Service.
The Quarry 2 fire also shut down some of the area’s southbound Turnpike lanes Friday afternoon and triggered evacuations from trailer parks and fishing camps near Krome Avenue.
According to the Florida Department of Transportation, all lanes of Krome Avenue between Tamiami Trail and Okeechobee Road also remain closed.
The 4,000-acre Coptic blaze, located further south in Everglades National Park, is less than half contained, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.
How are the fires impacting air quality?
AirNow.gov shows smoke plumes traveling north and slightly east, impacting fewer cities than previous days.
The nearest air quality monitor to the fires indicates that the worst pollution was detected on June 17 and has fluctuated in the following days depending on wind direction, weather and emergency workers’ efforts to contain the blazes.
While some residents voluntarily evacuated following strong recommendations from the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, additional evacuation orders have not been issued.
How can I stay safe from wildfire smoke?
Those planning to celebrate outdoors this holiday weekend are encouraged to keep an eye on air quality, especially if they have a heart or lung condition, or live in a household with children or elders.
Drivers can also avoid exposure by seeking Turnpike alternatives when driving to or from Miami.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the most effective method for avoiding wildfire smoke is staying indoors.
Masks can also help lessen the amount of particles entering the lungs. The EPA recommends finding a tight-fitting N95 or P100 respirator, with two straps that go around the back of the head, rather than around the ears.
