Wildfires Impact Miami-Dade Ahead of Holiday Weekend

Smoke rises during a brush fire on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, in west Miami-Dade just west of Doral. Three wildfires continued to burn west of Miami heading into the holiday weekend. These fires have cast a haze over some Juneteenth celebrations and threaten to linger over Father’s Day.

Emergency workers from across Florida have worked tirelessly to control the fires in Miami-Dade County. A lightning strike ignited the drought-dried brush near Doral on June 15. Despite efforts, thousands of acres remain engulfed, making it unclear when the fires will be fully contained.

Fire Containment Status

Three of the region’s four known wildfires are still active as of Friday. Doral’s Well 13 and Quarry 2 fires are 55% and 80% contained, respectively. Combined, these fires have scorched over 18,000 acres, as reported by the Florida Forest Service.

The Quarry 2 fire has disrupted travel and led to evacuations. Southbound lanes on the area’s Turnpike closed Friday afternoon, and trailer parks and fishing camps near Krome Avenue were evacuated. The Florida Department of Transportation noted that Krome Avenue between Tamiami Trail and Okeechobee Road remains closed.

Further south in Everglades National Park, the 4,000-acre Coptic blaze is less than half contained. While fires persisted on June 19, changing weather and intense firefighting efforts have improved local air quality.

Air Quality Impacts

Smoke plumes have drifted north and slightly east, impacting fewer cities than before, according to AirNow.gov. An air quality monitor near the fires recorded the highest pollution levels on June 17. Air quality has varied with wind conditions and firefighting progress.

Though some residents evacuated after recommendations from the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, no further evacuations have been mandated. An air quality monitor in Hialeah at the Florida Turnpike and Okeechobee Road intersection tracks these changes during the fires.

Safety Tips During Wildfire Smoke

Individuals planning outdoor activities this holiday weekend should monitor air quality, particularly those with heart or lung issues or households with children or elders. Drivers should consider Turnpike alternatives when traveling to or from Miami to avoid smoke exposure.

The Environmental Protection Agency advises that staying indoors is the most effective way to avoid wildfire smoke. Masks such as N95 or P100 respirators may reduce particle inhalation and should fit snugly with two straps around the back of the head.

Allison Beck is an award-winning reporter for the Coral Springs News, a sister publication to the Miami Herald. They hold a degree from Temple University and cover a wide range of topics, including stolen human remains and space-based enterprises.