NWS warns of heat risk; brush fire smoke causes ‘unhealthy’ air quality

Intense heat and active brush fires in Miami-Dade could create difficult conditions for anyone planning to spend time outdoors on Wednesday.

Read more Brush fires burn over 4,500 acres in Miami-Dade; officials urge caution amid smoke

The Quarry 2 and Well fires have burned more than 4,550 acres combined, sending thick smoke into the surrounding area. According to the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map, the air quality is unhealthy in the areas closest to the fires, including Hialeah, Opa-locka, Miramar and more. Areas a bit further north, like Davie, are experiencing moderate air quality. (AirNow rates air quality as good, moderate, unhealthy for sensitive groups, unhealthy, very unhealthy and hazardous.)

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service (NWS) is keeping a heat advisory in effect from noon until 6 p.m. for coastal and metro areas of Miami-Dade and Broward counties.

Meteorologists are forecasting high temperatures in the low- to mid-90s, with heat index values that could reach 104°F to 108°F. The heat risk is rated moderate to high, meaning potentially dangerous conditions “resulting in dangerous heat for anyone without proper hydration or adequate cooling.”

According to the NWS, Saharan dust could limit storm development through much of the afternoon, allowing the heat to intensify.

How to stay safe in smoky or hazy conditions

When there are smoke particles high enough in the air, the radar will show that accumulation the same way it would show rain.

“When you see the smoke on the radar like this, you know it can get into your lungs, that’s why we’re telling folks to try to stay clear of this area if you can,” NBC6 meteorologist Adam Berg said.

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Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said smoke can reduce visibility on the road and cause respiratory issues.

Reduce how much smoke you inhale by:

• wearing a mask, such as N95
• avoiding strenuous activities such as mowing the lawn or going for a run
• limiting time outdoors, and take frequent breaks if you must
• keeping windows closed, and setting air conditioning systems to recirculate indoor air

If you must drive through smoke or haze, authorities suggest you:

• use extra caution
• increase your following distance
• use low-beam headlights
• keep windows closed, and set air conditioning systems to recirculate indoor air

How to stay safe in the heat

For those who plan to work, exercise, or do outdoor activities, officials recommend taking extra precautions to prevent heat-related illness.

Officials advise residents to:

• hydrate, even before you feel thirsty
• wear loose, light-colored clothing
• wear sunscreen
• use air conditioning, as fans and open windows won’t be enough to keep cool
• stay in a cool place, especially during the heat of the afternoon
• limit outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

And remember, never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle, as temperatures inside a parked car can rise to deadly levels within minutes.

Symptoms of heat-related illness

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can happen if exposed to high temperatures for too long.

Move to a cooler area and sip cool water if you experience dizziness, heavy sweating, nausea or weakness, and seek medical help if your symptoms don’t improve.

Call 911 immediately if you or someone else experiences a throbbing headache, confusion, dizziness or loses consciousness.

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Make a safety plan

In general, it’s a good idea to:

• plan your activities ahead of time to limit time outdoors
• avoid spending long periods of time in the sun
• consider possible delays or traffic impacts related to the fires
• carry water with you
• make sure your phone is charged
• let family or friends know if you plan to spend time outdoors for prolonged periods of time