Wildland firefighters are continuing suppression efforts on the Bluegill Fire in Everglades National Park after the lightning caused wildfire grew to an estimated 815 acres. According to the National Park Service, the fire was reported on August 2nd at approximately 11:30am and is now about 75 percent contained.
The Bluegill Fire is burning roughly nine miles east of Shark Valley and just south of U.S. Highway 41 near Mile Marker 26. Officials said the wildfire was started by a lightning strike and is being fought by crews from the U.S. Wildland Fire Service with assistance from Miami Dade Fire Rescue, the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, and the Florida Forest Service.
Firefighters Use Multiple Strategies To Limit Growth
Firefighters are using a combination of direct and indirect suppression tactics to slow the fire and keep it within established boundaries. Direct suppression focuses on stopping flames at the fire’s edge while indirect strategies take advantage of natural barriers to help contain the wildfire.
Ground crews, fire engines, airboats, and aircraft are all being used in the response. Park officials said additional firefighting resources will be requested if conditions require more support.
The National Park Service reported that fire behavior has eased since the initial period of active burning. Activity is currently considered low on the north side of the fire and moderate on the south side.
Smoke May Affect Drivers On U.S. Highway 41
Although there are no evacuation orders in place, smoke from the Bluegill Fire could reduce visibility along U.S. Highway 41, also known as the Tamiami Trail. Traffic control operations are being handled by the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida and the Florida Highway Patrol.
Motorists traveling through the area are being urged to drive cautiously and prepare for rapidly changing conditions, including the possibility of temporary road closures if smoke becomes too dense.
According to park officials, there are currently no immediate threats to life, property, or natural and cultural resources within Everglades National Park. Firefighters will continue working until the wildfire is fully contained while monitoring conditions that could influence fire behavior in the coming days. Visitors planning trips to the park should check the latest conditions before traveling and monitor local air quality forecasts if they are sensitive to smoke.