Miami-Dade Brush Fire and Air Quality Concerns

Smoke rose from a brush fire on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, in west Miami-Dade near Doral. Fires in this area have affected almost 22,000 acres since the previous week. Though almost contained by Monday, air quality remains a pressing issue throughout the county.

Fire Containment Status

Chris Fisher, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Miami, noted that despite high containment, the fires continue to burn within those perimeters. The Quarry Fire, located near Northwest 137th Avenue and 41st Street, west of Doral, has impacted approximately 19,000 acres and is 97% contained as reported on Sunday by the Florida Forest Service fire map. In another area near Northwest 122nd Avenue and 58th Street, the Wells Fire burned through about 2,750 acres and is 85% contained. A third fire in the Everglades covers 330 acres and is 15% contained as of Monday.

Fire Origins and Ongoing Efforts

The Quarry and Wells fires ignited following a thunderstorm on June 14. Since then, dozens of firefighters have worked to control the fires, prompting hundreds of residents to evacuate their homes. Nearby communities are experiencing smoke, soot, and ash.

MORE: Inside Miami’s challenging week: Wildfires, flying soot, dark clouds, extreme heat

As the fires begin to dissipate, an air quality alert remains in effect for Miami-Dade County until 3 p.m. on Tuesday. The National Weather Service warns that surface smoke may intensify overnight when thunderstorm winds subside.

Weather and Health Advisory

Showers and thunderstorms may occur Tuesday morning and afternoon, resulting in patchy smoke across metro Miami-Dade. Highs are expected in the mid-90s with lows in the upper-70s, forecasting humid conditions.

Fisher emphasized the importance of caution given the heat, humidity, and deteriorating air quality. He advised limiting outdoor activities in the evening and morning. Staying indoors with windows closed is recommended, especially for sensitive groups and outdoor night workers.