Miami-Dade brush fire surpasses Palisades Fire in size

In March 2025, a significant brush fire ignited in southern Miami-Dade County, Florida. Over the course of several days, the fire expanded rapidly, growing to 26,437 acres. This wildfire has surpassed the size of the Palisades Fire in California, which previously captured national attention when it burned 23,707 acres earlier this year. Currently, the fire is reported to be only 30% contained, creating urgent challenges for firefighters. Due to the vast dimensions and inaccessibility of the flames, both aerial and ground resources have been deployed to contain the fire. Five helicopters were authorized for continuous water drops over the affected area, while a plane equipped with fire-retardant chemicals from Tennessee has been enlisted to combat the spreading flames. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue has highlighted the severity of the situation, describing it as an all-hands-on-deck scenario. Smoke from the fire has disrupted travel, particularly on U.S. Highway 1, which connects the Florida Keys to the mainland. Visibility issues led to hazardous driving conditions and necessary road closures. Local residents have been vocal about the challenges posed by these closures, illustrating the impact of the fire on daily life. Fortunately, while some nearby infrastructure has been affected, there have been no significant damages to homes or businesses, and evacuation orders have been minimal. However, a juvenile residential facility was evacuated as a precaution. Authorities are advising vulnerable groups, including children and those with respiratory issues, to remain indoors and take precautions against smoke exposure. Drivers in the vicinity have been instructed to use air conditioning and keep windows shut to mitigate inhalation of smoke. While emergency response efforts are ongoing and conditions remain strenuous, it is vital to note that this fire, while substantial, is not Florida's largest wildfire on record. That title is held by the 1998 Florida Firestorm, which caused devastating destruction by burning over 500,000 acres.