Many South Floridians awoke to the smell of smoke Wednesday morning after an ongoing brush fire broke out in the Everglades. Firefighters in Broward County are working to contain a fire near mile marker 39 that had already burned 1,600 acres by Tuesday afternoon, according to the Florida Forest Service. Another blaze, dubbed the Sawgrass Fire, has also burned 250 acres in the same region.
Officials say the fires are 0% contained as of Wednesday morning, though are currently on the scene so that no nearby structures or roadways are affected.
The National Weather Service issued a warning for low visibility across Broward County this morning, with some areas reduced to 5 miles or less. Drivers are being urged to exercise caution as visibility may change suddenly across short distances.
Broward’s Natural Resource Division says air quality is currently “unhealthy” due to the particulate matter from the smoke. Those who are sensitive to air pollution should limit their time outdoors and keep their windows and doors closed.
This is a developing story. Please check back for more and follow safety advisories issued by local authorities.