Miami woke up Sunday, March 1, 2026, to low 70s and partly cloudy skies, but the morning commute came with a catch. Drivers heading inland or across the state are staring down a messy mix of fog and wildfire smoke that could turn cross-peninsula trips into a slow crawl.
Fog And Smoke This Morning
Patchy dense fog is possible across interior South Florida early today, and smoke from the Big Cypress wildfire may reduce visibility on I-75 (Alligator Alley), the Tamiami Trail and State Road 29, according to the Big Cypress National Preserve. Motorists are urged to use low-beam headlights, slow down, leave extra space, and factor in more travel time on rural stretches. Officials also warn drivers to avoid stopping in smoky zones whenever possible.
Showers And Storm Timing
Rain gear will not be a bad idea. A chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms ramps up after 7 a.m. Sunday, with the highest coverage expected during the afternoon and early evening. Forecasters call for highs near 79°F, with most spots picking up around a tenth to a quarter of an inch of rain, although brief heavier downpours could pop up. North to northeast winds stay light to moderate during the day, then turn breezier this evening into Monday.
Monday Winds And Beach Risk
By Monday, March 2, 2026, a tightening pressure gradient is set to push northeast winds along the coast to around 10-15 mph, with gusts near 20 mph. That pattern will boost the rip current risk and may push Atlantic conditions to advisory levels. Beachgoers should keep an eye on the flags and follow lifeguard instructions before jumping in.
Travel And Local Notes
Planning to cross the Everglades on Alligator Alley or roll along the Tamiami Trail today? Check conditions before you go, since closures and heavy smoke have affected those routes in recent days, as reported in coverage that smoke chokes Alligator Alley. Residents with asthma or other respiratory sensitivities should monitor local air quality updates and consider limiting outdoor exertion while smoke lingers.
What To Carry
Keep a light rain jacket handy and make sure windshield wipers are in good shape for sudden downpours. Give yourself extra commute time and drive cautiously in low-visibility areas. For mariners and anglers, expect building east-northeast winds from Monday onward and check county marine forecasts before heading offshore.
