On Wednesday, a wildfire in Monroe County, Florida, led to the
These closures caused significant delays in traffic for those trying to enter or exit the archipelago. The authorities have not provided an estimate of when Card Sound Road will reopen, reported the agency AP.
The fire started on Tuesday afternoon on the mainland side of Card Sound Road, an area that is mostly rural.
Teams from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service are working to contain the fire and have advised people with respiratory conditions to stay indoors due to the smoky conditions.
According to information from the Miami Herald, “the aerial surveillance of the fire, conducted by the Florida Forest Service, shows that it is much larger than what authorities initially estimated.”
Initially, the Forest Service reported that the fire covered 4,000 acres and was 20% contained. However, on Thursday, the estimate was revised, increasing the affected area to 22,000 acres while maintaining the containment at 20%.
Brush fires are common in south Florida during the dry season, and this week has been particularly windy, complicating firefighting efforts.
Although the chief meteorologist of NEXT Weather, Iván Cabrera, told CBS News that there is no threat to commercial or residential areas, the reopening of access routes will depend on the evolution of the fire and the safety conditions on the roads.
Residents and tourists are advised to stay informed through official sources and avoid unnecessary travel to the affected areas.
This fire occurs before the NASCAR Cup, scheduled for this weekend at Homestead Miami Speedway. Authorities have stated that it will proceed as planned.
Frequently asked questions about the wildfire in the Florida Keys
What are the reasons for the closure of access to the Florida Keys?
The closure of access to the Florida Keys is due to a wildfire affecting Monroe County, resulting in the temporary closure of US 1 highway and the complete closure of Card Sound Road. This fire has caused significant traffic delays and has complicated firefighting efforts due to windy conditions.
What is the current status of the wildfire in Monroe County?
The wildfire covers approximately 22,000 acres and is 20% contained. Teams from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service are working to contain the fire, but windy conditions have complicated fire control efforts.
What measures should residents and tourists take in the Florida Keys?
Residents and tourists are advised to stay informed through official sources and avoid unnecessary travel to affected areas. Additionally, individuals with respiratory conditions should remain indoors to avoid exposure to smoke.
Is there any threat to commercial or residential areas due to the fire?
According to the chief meteorologist of NEXT Weather, Iván Cabrera, there is no threat to commercial or residential areas at this time. The reopening of access roads will depend on the progress of the fire and safety conditions on the roads.
Filed under:
