Florida Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Florida - May 11, 2026

Overview

Florida is currently experiencing an elevated and dangerous fire risk driven by an extreme spring drought, which state officials have described as the worst since 1989. The combination of critically low humidity, near-record heat, gusty winds, and dormant vegetation has created highly combustible conditions across the state. The current National Preparedness Level is 2, indicating that while active geographic areas may require national support, resource capability remains stable enough nationally to sustain operations.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: There are currently dozens of active wildfires burning across Florida, with officials tracking over 60 active blazes. The state is in the middle of one of its most active wildfire seasons in decades, with nearly 2,000 wildfires reported statewide so far this year, scorching more than 120,000 acres. Firefighters are working aggressively to contain these fires while monitoring for rapid spread due to the dry conditions.

Key Fires:

• Max Road Fire: Located in western Broward County in the Everglades (west of U.S. 27 and Pines Boulevard), this fire has burned approximately 5,000 acres and is currently 20% contained. Fueled by dry sawgrass and Everglades brush, it has created a large smoke plume. Fire-Rescue and police are monitoring the perimeter near the Holly Lake community, though no evacuations have been ordered yet.
• 172nd Avenue Fire: Burning in south Miami-Dade near Florida City, this fire has scorched about 210 acres and is 30% contained. The fire temporarily forced the closure of Card Sound Road and continues to produce heavy smoke.
• Charlotte County I-75 Fire: A 52-acre wildfire burning alongside northbound Interstate 75 is now 85% contained. Helicopters and ground crews have been working to extinguish the flames fueled by dry grass and brush.
• White Gate Fire: Located in Hendry County, this 97-acre fire is currently 95% contained.
• East Grove County Line Fire: Located in DeSoto County, this 37-acre fire is also 95% contained.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: Due to the extreme fire danger, widespread burn bans have been enacted or extended across numerous counties over the last 72 hours, including St. Johns, Polk, Orange, and Nassau counties. These bans strictly prohibit all outdoor burning, including campfires, bonfires, yard debris burning, and unpermitted controlled burns. Residents are urged to avoid any activities that could produce sparks, such as tossing cigarettes, dragging trailer chains, or using hot equipment near dry vegetation.

Air Quality: Smoke from the active wildfires in South Florida is significantly impacting air quality and visibility. Smoke from the Max Road Fire is blowing toward Pembroke Pines, and drivers on U.S. 27 and Pines Boulevard are experiencing traffic delays. Heavy smoke from the 172nd Avenue Fire is also affecting visibility in south Miami-Dade. Residents in these areas are advised to monitor conditions and use caution when driving.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Florida continues to suffer from severe drought conditions with near-record heat and critically low relative humidity.
Forecasted Weather: Red Flag Warnings have been repeatedly issued across various parts of the state, including Northeast, North Central, and Central Florida, due to critical fire weather conditions. Sustained west-southwest winds of 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph, combined with humidity levels dropping into the 20-30% range, are expected to persist. These conditions make rapid or uncontrolled fire growth highly likely. A modest cooldown and potential rain chances are hoped for later in the week, but the underlying drought suggests fire danger will remain high until the summer rainy season fully arrives.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are strongly advised to adhere to all local burn bans and avoid any open flames. It is crucial to have an emergency plan in place, stay weather-aware, and prepare for possible evacuations if fires threaten residential areas. Drivers should avoid stopping to look at the fires, as this has caused dangerous traffic backups on major roadways.
Resource Allocation: Local and state agencies are coordinating closely, utilizing both ground crews and aviation resources (such as water-dropping helicopters) to attack the fires. Fire departments are positioned along community perimeters to protect structures and monitor fire progression.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) / Florida Forest Service: www.fdacs.gov/Divisions-Offices/Florida-Forest-Service

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.