South Florida emergency crews are actively battling a fast-moving brush fire in the Everglades along the Broward and Miami-Dade County line, which broke out on Sunday evening. Dubbed the Max Road Miramar Fire, the blaze has reportedly scorched nearly 5,000 acres due to dry, wind-driven conditions and remains just 20% contained as of Monday morning, according to the Florida Forest Service.
Officials have confirmed that there have been no deaths or serious injuries, and no buildings have been destroyed.
Where is the fire and what caused it?
The wildfire is currently centered near North Krome Avenue and Northwest 186th Street, advancing toward US-27. Agencies including Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue, and the Florida Forest Service are working to establish and hold containment lines.
While officials have not yet pinpointed the exact spark that started the blaze, extreme weather conditions appear to have played a role. South Florida has been experiencing a severe dry spell and drought, turning the area’s sawgrass into highly flammable kindling. Strong winds have further accelerated its spread.
Traffic and air quality alerts
While there are no mandatory evacuation orders in place, the sheer volume of smoke from the fire has created hazardous conditions across the region.
The heavy smoke has prompted air quality alerts and road warnings. Residents in areas like Pembroke Pines, Miramar and Weston have been advised to keep windows closed and set their air conditioning to recirculate indoor air.
Drivers stopping on US-27 and Pines Boulevard to watch the flames have caused traffic backups. Pembroke Pines Police and other local authorities are urging drivers to stay out of the area or keep moving so emergency routes remain clear.
Meanwhile, law enforcement is monitoring visibility closely and warning drivers against stopping on highways, as “blackout” smoke conditions could cause sudden drops in visibility.
Florida City fire
Currently, the Max Road Miramar Fire isn’t the only one burning right now. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue was battling another blaze near Southwest 344th Street and South Dixie Highway, which has scorched at least 210 acres and is 30% contained. It has been dubbed 172nd Avenue Fire.
Over the weekend, it temporarily shut down Card Sound Road — a primary route to the Florida Keys — and diverted traffic to Krome Avenue.
This is a developing story. Please stay informed on the latest developments and follow all safety advisories issued by local authorities. You can also track active wildfires and see their containment levels on the Florida Forest Service (FFS) Active Wildfire Points map here.
As we know more information, we will keep you updated.