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MDFR battles raging wildfire in West Dade |
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First-arriving units could see a large column of smoke from miles away. Due to the rough terrain, MDFR crews were unable to gain direct access to the flames. This situation posed a challenge for MDFR and Florida Division of Forestry crews as the fire grew in intensity due to high easterly winds. During the early stages of the fire, heavy smoke and flames threatened residential areas but due to the swift and aggressive actions by Forestry fire crews, these areas were spared. MDFR firefighters supported the Forestry crews by providing a constant water supply for their bombardier trucks. Several MDFR fire apparatus continuously applied water streams to the homes along 157th Avenue in an effort to protect these properties in the event that the fire spread to the east. The Florida Division of Forestry provided assistance by deploying bombardiers, which were able to access the burning area over difficult terrain. Each bombardier carried 500 gallons of water to fire locations inaccessible to conventional fire trucks. MDFR's Air Rescue helicopters joined the attack by performing more than a dozen water drops over the burning brush. This aggressive approach by land and air was instrumental in preventing any further fire spread. Due to heavy smoke conditions, a voluntary evacuation order was given for the areas between 157th and 152nd Avenue and SW 30th and 10th Street. Southwest 157th Avenue will remain closed between 42 Street and 10 Street. According to the Florida Division of Forestry, the fire has consumed an estimated 300 acres. The fire along 157th Avenue has been contained and extinguished but Division of Forestry crews are still working to extinguish the western edge of the fire. Fortunately, the winds have decreased and the fire no longer poses a threat to residential areas. However, smoldering brush will continue to produce smoke throughout the night. MDFR reminds residents to stay indoors with their central air conditioners turned on. People with respiratory problems should not expose themselves to this smoke as it can aggravate their medical condition. A total of 42 MDFR units several Florida Division of Forestry units responded to the scene. No injuries were reported. For further information, please contact MDFR's Media and Public Relations Bureau at 786-331-5200.
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