BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. – A smoky haze has settled over parts of Broward County as winds push smoke from a wildfire burning south of Lake Okeechobee into the region, officials confirmed Thursday.
Authorities said the 10-acre wildfire in Palm Beach County does not pose a direct threat to residents, but shifting winds have carried smoke into areas including Coral Springs and Parkland, prompting officials to urge caution for those with respiratory conditions.
“We are aware of smoke lingering in Coral Springs and Parkland today,” Coral Springs Fire Rescue wrote on Facebook. “If you have known respiratory issues, we encourage you to reduce your time spent outside.”
Local 10 meteorologist Brandon Orr said dry air and gusty northwest winds, reaching up to 25 mph, are helping transport the smoke into the area.
With humidity levels dropping to around 30-35%, conditions are favorable for brush fires, especially as much of the region remains in a moderate to severe drought.
“The smoke is mostly off the ground, so you may not smell it right now,” Orr said. “But as temperatures drop tonight, some of that smoke could settle closer to the surface.”
Temperatures are expected to fall into the mid-50s along the coast overnight, with some inland areas dropping into the upper 40s. The cooler air, however, will be short-lived, as Orr says record heat is possible later in the week.
Authorities are monitoring conditions closely and advise residents and visitors to limit outdoor activity if they experience smoke-related discomfort.
For the hour-by-hour forecast and a live radar, visit this page.
