A sprawling brush fire necessitated the closure of Krome Avenue in both directions and prompted evacuations in the western part of Miami-Dade County this Wednesday, as reported by local authorities and the Florida Highway Patrol.
Known as Quarry 2, the fire has been burning since Monday, consuming 13,400 acres with only about 30% containment, according to the Florida Forest Service.
A second blaze, called the Well Fire, ignited on Tuesday in a nearby area, charring an additional 500 acres with 25% containment.
The Miccosukee Police Department, at the request of the Highway Patrol and the Forest Service, enforced the closure of Krome Avenue, blocking it from SW 8th Street to NW 25th Street.
"Krome Avenue is currently closed in both directions," confirmed the Miccosukee Police, whose reservation borders the affected area directly.
Authorities advise drivers to avoid the region, expect delays, and seek alternative routes, recommending FL511.com for road status updates.
The situation escalated to a level three alarm, demanding a significant allocation of resources. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue dispatched approximately seven ground units, tanker trucks, and fire engines, supported by the Florida Forest Service and Broward County Sheriff's deputies.
Telemundo 51's helicopter captured footage of two U.S. Army helicopters joining the firefighting efforts.
Smoke plumes are visible as far as the southwestern part of Broward County, directly affecting communities like Hialeah, Doral, Hialeah Gardens, and Medley. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue warned that "as temperatures rise throughout the day, smoke is expected to increase, and some haze and smoke may continue to impact surrounding communities."
Fire department spokesperson Erika Benítez advised individuals with respiratory issues to "avoid exposure to smoke" and stay indoors.
The National Weather Service issued an air quality alert, specifically targeting individuals with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the elderly, and children, while the Environmental Protection Agency discouraged outdoor activities in South Florida.
As of the report, the two active fires in Miami-Dade had not resulted in any damaged structures or injuries.
The Quarry 2 began on Monday near NW 137th Avenue and NW 41st Street, under red flag conditions—low humidity and strong winds—and, despite reaching 60% containment that afternoon, it reignited and expanded significantly in subsequent days.
The previous fire in the area, noted on Monday in the county's west, had already raised concerns over the extreme drought conditions affecting the region.
This wildfire season is the most active Florida has seen in over a decade: since January 2026, more than 1,916 fires have scorched approximately 120,000 acres statewide, with over 70% of Florida under extreme or exceptional drought conditions, and rainfall 50% below average since September 2025.
FAQs about Miami-Dade Brush Fire
What caused the Quarry 2 fire in Miami-Dade?
The Quarry 2 fire was exacerbated by red flag conditions, including low humidity and strong winds, leading to its rapid spread.
How is the air quality affected by the fires in South Florida?
An air quality alert has been issued, warning those with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children to minimize outdoor activities due to smoke and haze from the fires.
Are there any road closures in effect due to the Miami-Dade fires?
Yes, Krome Avenue is closed in both directions from SW 8th Street to NW 25th Street due to the ongoing fire situation.