A massive brush fire that broke out on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, in southern Miami-Dade County rapidly engulfed 26,000 acres by March 23, 2025. The wildfire is now at 80% containment, and under control, according to the most recent update from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue:
Current status of Miami-Dade brush fires
The fire, now called the “344 Fire,” has grown to over 26,000 acres and is 80% contained as of March 24, 2025.
Most recent road closures and traffic disruptions
As of March 24, 2025, both U.S. 1’s 18-Mile Stretch and Card Sound Road are open. However, officials warn that closures may still occur depending on conditions, and drivers should remain cautious due to potential smoky conditions.
Firefighting efforts to control the blaze
The Florida Forest Service is still actively working on containment, with operations including engines, tractors, bulldozers, three helicopters, and two fixed-wing airplanes. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue is now in the “mop-up” phase, focusing on extinguishing spot fires in areas that still have active flames.
‘Firenado’ spotted amid Miami brush fires
A rare and dramatic weather phenomenon known as a “firenado” was captured on video amid the ongoing brush fires in Miami-Dade County. On March 19, 2025, Chopper6 from NBC 6 South Florida recorded footage of a tornado-like vortex forming within the heavy smoke of the wildfire.
A firenado, or fire tornado, occurs when intense heat from a wildfire causes the air to rise rapidly, creating a rotating column of air that can spin smoke or flames into a twister. These events are typically brief and weak, often appearing more like a “smokenado” when the fire isn’t large enough to extend the entire column.
Air quality in Miami right now
Miami’s air quality is compromised amid the dangerous brush fires, although it has improved as the fire’s been contained. Local officials warn that the smoke could stay in the air for several days, or even weeks depending on the weather. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is currently in the “Moderate” range, indicating unhealthy conditions for sensitive groups. Local authorities suggest staying indoors, using an air filter, and not going outside without a N95 or KN95 mask.
How the March Miami-Dade brush fires started
While the exact cause of the wildfire remains unknown, local officials now suspect it could be the result of arson, although they are still investigating.
Several factors have contributed to the easy spreading of fire in Miami-Dade County. Ongoing drought conditions have settled across the region, with rainfall being sparse through the winter months, leading to dry conditions. Recent cold fronts without precipitation have further dried out the area, resulting in exceptionally low relative humidity.
Soil moisture and brush fire risk
The soil moisture over South Florida is running at 10 to 20 percentile for this time of year, exacerbating the fire risk. Although March fires are not uncommon in South Florida, it’s worth noting that the peak wildfire season typically occurs in April, May, and June as the dry season transitions to the rainy season. The current drought conditions are expected to persist through May 2025, further increasing the potential for wildfires in the coming months.
Updates on Miami-Dade brush fires
As firefighting efforts continue, residents and visitors to the area are urged to stay informed about the latest developments and follow all safety advisories issued by local authorities.