Card Sound Road in Miami-Dade County remains closed as emergency crews battle a large brush fire that was first reported yesterday near the 40800 block. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service are on the scene, with fire units and helicopters responding. The fire has burned about 3,600 acres and is currently 20% contained, according to NBC Miami.
The fire has caused significant traffic disruptions, leading officials to close both directions of Card Sound Road and US 1 northbound and southbound to support firefighting efforts. US 1 was reopened after eight hours, but Card Sound Road remains closed. A spokesperson for the Florida Forest Service noted that the wet terrain is making firefighting operations difficult, as equipment is getting stuck, as reported by NBC Miami.
There have been no reported injuries, but power lines and communication towers have been damaged. The Florida Highway Patrol warns that the fire could burn for several more days, causing ongoing traffic delays. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue advises residents and visitors, particularly those with respiratory issues, to stay indoors and keep vehicle windows closed with the air conditioning set to recirculate to reduce smoke exposure, according to CBS Miami.
The situation has caused inconvenience for stranded travelers. Stefon Ford, a Key Largo resident, told NBC Miami, “My wife is concerned about it but there is not a lot we can do at this point. We have the Holiday Inn right here, so, we have to do what we have to do. I’m a little concerned, I want to get home, I have a dog at home, and things that need attention."
Visitor Charles Lim from South Korea expressed to CBS Miami, "I was so happy to see the ocean, but ohhh, I'm stuck! I'm so sorry about that because I need to go back to my country tomorrow."
Firefighting efforts are ongoing, with over 15 Miami-Dade Fire Rescue units involved, supported by air rescue helicopters. Officials warn that traffic disruptions will persist, and travelers to or from the Florida Keys are advised to avoid the area as crews work toward fully containing the fire.
