Wildfires in the Everglades have spread to 1,600 acres, and their effects are being felt across Broward County, including in Fort Lauderdale and its western suburbs. As reported by CBS News Miami, two major brush fires have taken hold, with one titled the Mile Marker 39 fire and the other known as the Sawgrass Fire, burning approximately 250 acres as of yesterday afternoon. Both fires remain 0% contained.
The smog has blanketed areas, causing Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue to receive numerous calls about the smoke. According to a special weather statement by the National Weather Service, visibility along roadways, including I-75, may be reduced to less than 3 miles in some areas, raising concerns for motorists. They have been urged to set their air conditioning systems to recirculate to avoid drawing in the smoke-laden air.
Broward's Natural Resources Division has classified air quality as "unhealthy" due to particulate matter from the wildfires. Sources, including Broward Environment, have advised residents, particularly those sensitive to air pollution, to limit their outdoor activities.
The #current air quality #forecast in #Broward County is #Unhealthy 🟥 for particulate matter (PM2.5). This is due to #Wildfires🔥in the #Everglades. Consider shortening time outdoors to avoid inhaling #AirPollution.
— Broward County Environment (@BrowardEnv) August 20, 2025
For updates, visit: https://t.co/8HgUqaBkJK pic.twitter.com/628QSNBdZm
Footage from traffic cameras and videos taken near major roadways, like I-95 show the extent of the blaze and the resulting haze. Local 10 News crews witnessed flames from the Everglades near Mile Marker 39, and hazy conditions were evident as far south as University Drive in Plantation, toward Interstate 595. Despite improvements, smoke still poses a visibility issue for morning commuters, according to Local 10 News.
