Introduction to Wildfire Smoke in Broward
Wildfire smoke wafting east from the Everglades is causing “unhealthy” air quality and low visibility across Broward County Wednesday morning, officials say.
The smoke is caused by two uncontained wildfires.
The biggest fire, called the Mile Marker 39 fire, is located near Mile Marker 39 on the Sawgrass Expressway in western Broward. It has spread to 1,600 acres, according to the Florida Forest Service. A second fire called the Sawgrass Fire is farther west, and has spread to 250 acres.
The smoke from both fires is drifting into metro areas of the county, according to the National Weather Service Miami.
Causes and Locations of the Wildfires
Locations of the two wildfires, the Mile Marker 39 fire and the Sawgrass Fire, both of which are 0% contained. (Courtesy/Florida Forest Service)
The two fires are causing significant concern due to their uncontained nature and the large area they cover.
The Mile Marker 39 fire is the larger of the two, covering an area of 1,600 acres, while the Sawgrass Fire covers 250 acres.
Health Risks and Precautions
The Environmental Protection Agency’s AirNow website rated the air quality at the reporting station in Hollywood as “unhealthy with an Air Quality Index of 154” as of Wednesday morning, which means everyone is at risk for health effects.
People who are sensitive to smoke, such as those with heart or lung disease, older adults, children and teens should consider limiting their time outdoors, health officials say, particularly during strenuous activities.
Everyone else should also take steps to reduce physical activity outside, such as walking instead of running.
A screenshot from the EPA’s AirNow reader. (Courtesy/EPA)
Travel and Visibility Concerns
“Exercise extra caution on the roads as visibilities may vary greatly across short distances,” NWS Miami warned on X.
Smoke from fires in western Broward pushing through Miami-Dade this morning đź’¨ pic.twitter.com/10LugbF8Z6
— Joel Franco (@OfficialJoelF) August 20, 2025
This warning is crucial for commuters and travelers who may be affected by the low visibility caused by the smoke.
Conclusion
The wildfire smoke from the Everglades drifting over Broward County is a significant concern for residents and visitors alike. With two uncontained wildfires causing “unhealthy” air quality and low visibility, it is essential to take precautions to minimize exposure to the smoke. By limiting time outdoors, reducing physical activity, and exercising caution on the roads, individuals can help protect themselves from the health risks associated with the wildfire smoke.
FAQs
Q: What is causing the wildfire smoke in Broward County?
A: The smoke is caused by two uncontained wildfires in the Everglades, the Mile Marker 39 fire and the Sawgrass Fire.
Q: How bad is the air quality in Broward County?
A: The air quality has been rated as “unhealthy” by the Environmental Protection Agency, with an Air Quality Index of 154.
Q: Who is most at risk from the wildfire smoke?
A: People who are sensitive to smoke, such as those with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and teens are most at risk.
Q: What precautions can individuals take to protect themselves from the smoke?
A: Individuals can limit their time outdoors, reduce physical activity, and exercise caution on the roads to minimize exposure to the smoke.
Q: Where can I find updates on the wildfire smoke and air quality in Broward County?
A: Check the Environmental Protection Agency’s AirNow website and local news sources for updates on the wildfire smoke and air quality in Broward County.
