MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – Miami-Dade firefighters continued working with a state and federal Forest Service team Monday after a wildfire burned over 26,000 acres.
The massive eight-day fire, which firefighters suspect was the result of arson, was under control on Monday morning, officials said.
For days, the fire affected traffic on the only two roads connecting southern Miami-Dade County and northern Monroe County. The Florida Highway Patrol reported the 18-mile stretch and Card Sound Road were open after days of intermittent closures.
FFS and MDFR officials urged drivers to avoid the area near the “344 Fire” due to the “heavy” emergency response, which included engines, tractors, bulldozers, three helicopters, and two fixed-wing airplanes.
Firefighters reported using a “fire retardant” to protect critical infrastructure in the area and The National Weather Service warned about strong winds and low humidity.
FFS and MDFR also asked residents and tourists in the area to avoid outdoor burning, secure trailer chains to prevent sparks, think of safety while disposing of cigarettes, and report smoke or fire immediately to 911.