Brush Fires in Miami-Dade: Smoke, Road Closures, and Containment Efforts

Smoke continues to rise from a brush fire in west Miami-Dade, near Doral, as of Wednesday, June 17, 2026. The fire spans 5,300 acres with 30% contained, adding to the area’s dark, smoky conditions, poor air quality, and intermittent road closures.

The cause of these fires is traced to a lightning strike, burning over 20,000 acres since Sunday. Initially ignited near Krome Avenue during a thunderstorm, the fire split into two: the Quarry 2 Fire and the Wells Fire.

Fire Developments

The Quarry 2 Fire has expanded to 19,000 acres and is 97% contained. The Wells Fire, covering 1,425 acres, is 70% contained. The Quarry 2 Fire began near Northwest 137th Avenue and Northwest 41st Street. The Wells Fire started near Northwest 122nd Avenue and Northwest 58th Street.

Officials from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue warned residents and visitors of ongoing smoky conditions due to weather changes, potentially affecting nearby roadways.

Florida’s Turnpike southbound lanes from Okeechobee Road to Northwest 41st Street are now open. Krome Avenue, closed between Okeechobee Road and Southwest Eighth Street, is expected to reopen soon.

New Fire Outbreaks

On Wednesday, the Coptic Fire erupted in the Everglades following another lightning strike, extending to nearly 5,000 acres with 40% containment.

With Florida facing a drought that’ll likely persist through summer, fire risks remain high. AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Chad Merrill emphasized that substantial rainfall is necessary to alleviate drought conditions and help firefighting efforts.

Weather and Environmental Impact

National Weather Service meteorologist Chris Fisher noted a 50% to 60% chance of rain over the weekend, although it’s unclear if these rains will target the fire zones.

The U.S. government’s AirNow program has rated Miami-Dade County’s air quality as “moderate.” A heat advisory from the National Weather Service is in place with index values possibly hitting 110 degrees.

Residents should limit outdoor exposure, keep doors and windows closed, and adjust air conditioning units to recirculate air to reduce smoke inhalation risks.

Evacuations and Returns

More than 200 residents voluntarily evacuated their trailer park near Krome Avenue. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office announced that Jones Fish Camp evacuees could return home.