Wildfires in the Everglades Spread and Impact South Florida

Everglades Wildfires Grow Without Containment
Smoke Impacts Florida Cities
Drought Increases Fire Risk

Wildfires in the Everglades, one of the most iconic ecosystems in the southern United States, have grown at an alarming rate in recent hours.

What began as a relatively controlled area has multiplied nearly tenfold, reaching 19,450 acres (about 7,871 hectares) and sending a dense cloud of smoke into several Florida cities.

Everglades Wildfires Grow Alarmingly

What’s Happening

The Florida Forest Service confirmed on Thursday that there are two main fires: one covering 19,200 acres (7,770 hectares) and another of 250 acres (101 hectares).

Both remain at 0% containment, meaning there are no effective control lines to stop the spread of the fire.

The figure contrasts sharply with the previous day, when just 1,850 acres (748 hectares) were reported affected.

An Ecosystem Under Threat

The Everglades cover more than 610,000 hectares of wetlands and are home to over 20 endangered or threatened species, including panthers, crocodiles, and alligators.

Although the fires are far from the controversial immigration detention center known as “Alligator Alcatraz,” the environmental impact on the region is a growing concern.

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Impact on the South Florida Population

The fires affect not only the ecosystem but also millions of people in urban areas.

“They have resulted in continued low visibility throughout Broward County,” authorities reported, in a county with nearly 2 million residents.
On social media, images show buildings and highways blanketed in smoke in cities such as Fort Lauderdale and Tamarac.
The Tamarac City Council itself warned: “The smoke from two wildfires in the Everglades is impacting the city. The Tamarac Fire Department is aware of the situation. We are monitoring and will provide updates as needed.”

Factors Behind the Everglades Wildfires

Although the exact cause of the wildfires has not yet been identified, drought is a major risk factor.

South Florida is currently experiencing “severe” to “moderate” drought conditions, according to federal records.

More than 5 million residents in the state are affected by this lack of rainfall.

A National Problem

The situation in Florida reflects a trend affecting the entire country.

According to the National Interagency Fire Center, the United States has recorded 44,130 wildfires so far in 2025.

This represents a 68% increase compared to the 26,240 fires during the same period in 2024.

The Outlook

With a combination of drought, extreme temperatures, and fragile ecosystems, the Everglades fires add to the list of environmental emergencies defining the year.

The challenge will not only be to contain the flames, but also to address the consequences for public health and the biodiversity of a territory unique in the world.

What to Do in Case of Fires or Alerts

In the event of heavy smoke or proximity to a wildfire, authorities recommend:

Stay informed through official channels.
Avoid outdoor activities and keep doors and windows closed to reduce smoke exposure.
Wear protective masks if you must go outside.
Prepare documents and essential belongings in case of evacuation.

Do you think Florida should invest more in wildfire prevention in natural areas such as the Everglades before these crises spiral out of control?

SOURCE: EFE