Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – Drivers across Broward County woke up Wednesday to thick smoke drifting east from the Sawgrass and Mile Marker 39 wildfires burning in the Everglades, reducing visibility on major roadways and triggering air quality concerns.
According to the National Weather Service in Miami, northwesterly winds are pushing smoke plumes into the metro area, creating patchy conditions that may change quickly over short distances. The smoke is expected to continue moving toward Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines, and Coral Springs through the afternoon.
Officials urge commuters to exercise caution on I-75, I-595, and the Sawgrass Expressway, where sudden drops in visibility are possible. Vulnerable groups, including those with asthma or heart conditions, are advised to limit time outdoors and monitor local air quality reports through the Environmental Protection Agency’s AirNow system.
Residents in Miami-Dade may also notice hazier skies as the smoke drifts southeast later in the day. Emergency managers recommend keeping windows closed and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities until winds shift.
The National Weather Service said smoke impacts could linger into Wednesday night, with updates expected as fire activity and wind direction change.
