Two large wildfires burning near the Everglades in west Miami-Dade have caused the county to issue a smoke advisory. Dubbed the Quarry 2 and Well fires, large plumes of smoke are being driven into heavily populated areas in northern Miami-Dade and southwest Broward counties, in addition to affecting air quality.
While the Air Quality Index (AQI) is in the Moderate range for Particulate Matter (PM2.5) as of Wednesday evening, shifting winds could push air pollution into the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category.
Real-time AQI conditions can be found on AirNow.gov, which breaks down the data on whether air quality is healthy, unhealthy for sensitive groups or hazardous. Under a Moderate level, the air may post a slight health risk to those sensitive to particle pollution.
The Miami-Dade Department of Environmental Resources Management (DERM) advises that individuals in affected areas take the following preventative measures:
- Limit outdoor activities and remain in an air-conditioned environment.
- Stay indoor with well-functioning air condition and ventilation system.
- Do not vacuum, light candles, use fireplaces or operate gas stoves. Do not smoke.
- Leave the area until the dust has cleared if there is no air conditioning or if dust is likely to get inside the house.
- Avoid activities that put extra demands on the lungs and heart. These include exercising or physical chores, both outdoors and indoors.
- Continue taking prescribed medications exactly as directed by your doctor. Contact a healthcare provider if you are concerned about your health.
Updates on the fires
As of Wednesday night, the Quarry 2 fire has grown to 15,900 acres with 50% containment, and the Well fire at 500 acres with 25% containment, according to the Florida Forest Service (FFS) Active Wildfires Dashboard. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and the FFS are working to suppress the blazes.
Because of the heavy smoke and reduced visibility, motorists are being asked to drive with caution, keep speeds low and reduce exposure by keeping vehicle windows closed. The Florida Department of Transportation has shut down all northbound and southbound lanes of Krome Avenue between Tamiami Trail and Okeechobee Road.
