Out-of-Control Fire in the Everglades: Nearly 5,000 Acres Burned Near Miami

• Everglades wildfire spreads
• Only 20% contained
• Smoke threatens suburbs

A large wildfire is spreading through the Everglades near the suburbs of the Miami metropolitan area, raising concerns over smoke and the fire’s proximity to residential communities.

The blaze, identified as the Max Road Miramar fire, has consumed nearly 4,800 acres and is only 20% contained, according to official data from the Florida Forest Service.

The flames are spreading across both sides of the border between Miami-Dade County and Broward County, complicating containment efforts and coordination among agencies.

Authorities have warned residents about the “dangerous smoke” covering large areas and reducing visibility on several roads.

Authorities urge residents to avoid the area

The fire was first reported Sunday and has since mobilized multiple emergency response teams.

The Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department confirmed that it is working alongside state forestry officials to protect homes near the affected area.

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Aerial images released by authorities show flames dangerously close to residential neighborhoods, along with a thick smoke plume visible for several miles.

The Pembroke Pines Police Department warned that drivers were stopping along U.S. Route 27 to watch the fire, causing “dangerous traffic backups.”

Officials call for compliance with road closures

As the wildfire continues spreading, Florida Senator Rick Scott publicly urged residents to obey road closures established for safety reasons.

“Respect local road closures,” the senator wrote on social media, encouraging drivers to avoid interfering with emergency operations.

The combination of dense smoke and traffic congestion has significantly increased risks along major roads near the fire zone.

Authorities reiterated that stopping to take photos or record videos could endanger both motorists and emergency responders.

Drought worsens critical fire in the Everglades

The wildfire comes during Florida’s peak fire season amid a historic drought affecting large parts of the state.

According to the Florida Forest Service, nearly 2,000 wildfires have burned approximately 120,000 acres statewide since the beginning of the year.

Most of Florida is currently experiencing extreme or exceptional drought conditions, increasing the rapid spread of flames, according to Fox Weather.

Although Miami has recorded roughly one inch less rainfall than usual this year, several areas of the Everglades remain under extreme drought conditions. That factor continues keeping authorities on high alert as crews battle to contain the fire.