Collier County’s “National Fire” Explodes to 25,000 Acres With 0% Containment, Smoke Threatens Alligator Alley, The Keys and Southern Miami-Dade
FLORIDA — A rapidly growing wildfire in Collier County has surged to 25,000 acres burned and remains 0% contained, prompting serious concerns about smoke impacts and visibility across South Florida.
The blaze, identified as the National Fire, is burning in the Everglades region west of Miami and north of Marco Island and Chokoloskee, with smoke spreading east and south toward heavily traveled corridors.
Fire Centered in the Everglades Near I-75
Mapping shows the wildfire burning inland from the Gulf Coast, south of Naples and west of Alligator Alley (Interstate 75).
The affected area stretches across remote Everglades terrain in Collier County, but smoke plumes are projected to impact more populated regions.
With 0% containment reported, the fire remains fully active, meaning crews have not yet established secure control lines around the perimeter.
Smoke Expected Across Alligator Alley and the Florida Keys
Authorities warn that smoky conditions will reduce visibility and degrade air quality along:
Alligator Alley (I-75 corridor)
Southern Miami-Dade County
The Florida Keys, including areas near Key Largo
Motorists traveling between Naples and Miami could encounter fluctuating visibility, particularly during overnight and early morning hours when smoke tends to settle closer to the ground.
Air quality may deteriorate in communities downwind of the fire, including Homestead and portions of southern Miami-Dade.
25,000 Acres Burned and Growing
At 25,000 acres, the National Fire is already one of the more significant wildfire events in South Florida this season.
The lack of containment indicates active fire spread remains possible, especially under dry, breezy conditions common in late winter across the Everglades.
Fire activity in this region often intensifies when winds shift, pushing smoke plumes toward coastal and metro areas.
Travel and Health Impacts Likely
Drivers on I-75, particularly near the Everglades stretch between Naples and the Broward/Miami-Dade line, should be alert for sudden drops in visibility.
Residents in affected areas may experience:
Hazy skies
Burning smells
Irritated eyes or respiratory discomfort
Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit prolonged outdoor exposure if smoke concentrations increase.
What This Means for North Carolina Readers
While the wildfire is confined to South Florida, it underscores the growing wildfire risk across parts of the country during dry seasonal transitions.
For those traveling to Miami, Naples, Marco Island or the Florida Keys, be aware of potential smoke-related disruptions.
Cabarrus Weekly will continue monitoring significant wildfire events nationwide. If you are in Collier County, along Alligator Alley or in southern Miami-Dade experiencing smoke impacts, share your updates at CabarrusWeekly.com to help keep others informed.
