An air quality alert is in effect on Tuesday for parts of Miami-Dade County due to the wildfire smoke in the region.
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The Miami-Dade County Division of Environmental Resources Management issued the alert until 3 p.m. for concentrations of fine particulates in the air that approach or exceed unhealthy standards.
According to the AirNow and the National Weather Service (NWS), in the areas of Doral, Sweetwater and Westchester, the air quality is “unhealthy” or “very unhealthy.” It improves to “moderate” further south and on the coast. Further north in Broward, most areas report “good.”
According to officials, three fires remain active.
The largest, the Quarry 2 Fire, has burned more than 19,000 acres and is now 97% contained.
The Well Fire grew to 2,809 acres and is 85% contained, and the Corrections Fire has burned 305 acres and is 15% contained, the Florida Forest Service said.
How to stay safe amid smoky conditions
Officials advise that everyone “keep outdoor activities light and short. Go inside to cleaner air if you have symptoms.” Sensitive groups are additionally advised to consider moving all activities inside.
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Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said smoke can reduce visibility on the road and cause respiratory issues. Authorities suggest that:
- If you must drive through smoke or haze, use extra caution, increase your following distance, and use low-beam headlights.
- If smoke is present in your area, limit time outdoors, keep doors and windows closed, and set air conditioning systems to recirculate indoor air. These precautions are especially important for individuals with respiratory conditions.
Heat advisory in effect
A heat advisory is in effect in Miami-Dade and Broward counties for feels-like temperatures that could climb to 110 degrees.
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.
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