Smoky SW Miami-Dade grass fire 45% contained

MIAMI - A southwest Miami-Dade grass fire that sent massive blooms of smoke into the air over the weekend was 45 percent contained as of Monday morning, according to the Florida Forest Service. 

The fire, burning along SW 8th Street and 137th Avenue, came very close to the road on Sunday. It has burned 170 acres. The easterly wind is blowing the smoke inland. 

Fire rescue and the Florida Forest Service worked overnight to contain the fire. To help protect nearby structures, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue upgraded the fire to a second alarm so additional units could assist.

"We currently have over 18 units on scene supporting Florida Forest Service to extinguish the fire," Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said in a statement on Sunday. "Fire units are patrolling the area putting out spot fires and Air Rescue was dispatched to deploy water drops to contain the fire."

Due to smoke and limited visibility, nearby roads were temporarily closed.

"What we're suggesting if you have respiratory issues try to avoid the area. If you're at home, or in your vehicle traveling, please keep your windows closed and your A/C recirculating inside your vehicle or home. We also ask that you stay away from the area because conditions can change quickly and this may lead to more road closures," said Erika Benetiz with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue.

There is a second brush fire at 157th Avenue and Bird Road which has charred about 100 acres and is 90 percent contained.   

In:
• Southwest Miami-Dade
• Grass Fire