Smoke from Everglades fire causes ‘unhealthy' air quality and low visibility in Broward
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.
'Exercise extra caution on the roads as visibilities may vary greatly across short distances,' NWS Miami warned on X.
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.
This is a developing story, so check back for updates. Click here to have breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox.
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