Highway 41 fire burns thousands of acres, threatens structures in west Miami-Dade

A wildfire is still burning in the Everglades Wednesday as firefighters work to control the flames threatening structures in western Miami-Dade.

The Highway 41 fire, named for its proximity to U.S. 41, has grown to 5,000 acres and was 0% contained as of Tuesday night, according to the U.S. Forest Service. It broke out at around 5 p.m. Monday.

Eight structures were threatened by the fire, but no evacuation orders were issued and no injuries have been reported, officials said.

The fire is burning further from Tamiami Trail than it was Tuesday, but drivers headed west from Miami will be able to see flames west of the Miccosukee Resort and Casino and Krome Avenue. The roadway remains open.

Fire response

The U.S. Forest Service reports that 48 personnel have been assigned to the blaze, along with five fire engines, four helicopters, and two fixed-wing aircraft. Officials said Tuesday that at least one USDA Forest Service engine from Arkansas supported the initial suppression efforts.

Crews were seen fighting the fire by air, making multiple runs to dump water onto the flames.

Firefighting efforts have cost approximately $750,000 so far.

The cause of the blaze remains undetermined.

Will I see smoke from the Highway 41 fire?

Northeast winds are keeping the smoke away from highly populated areas—for now.

“However, winds are changing here over the next day to two, and that could move the smoke around,” NBC6 meteorologist Adam Berg said.

By Thursday morning, more smoke may be blown east.

The National Weather Service advises residents to:

• exercise caution while driving if smoke reduces visibility
• monitor local air quality
• if sensitive to particle pollution, reduce time outdoors