Everglades wildfire scorches nearly 5,000 acres just outside Miami metro
FOX Weather • • nation
Key Points:
- A wildfire known as the Max Road Miramar Fire has burned nearly 5,000 acres in the Everglades near Miami, affecting areas in both Miami-Dade and Broward counties, with 20% containment reported.
- Officials have warned residents about dangerous smoke and are working to protect nearby properties, while authorities caution drivers to avoid stopping to watch the fire due to traffic hazards.
- The fire is occurring amid Florida's wildfire season, exacerbated by a historic drought impacting much of the state, with nearly 120,000 acres burned by almost 2,000 wildfires so far this year.
- Local officials, including Senator Rick Scott, have urged adherence to road closures and safety measures as aerial footage shows flames near residential areas and smoke visible for miles.
- The ongoing drought conditions, especially severe in parts of the Everglades, contribute to the increased wildfire risk, despite Miami receiving slightly below average rainfall this year.