Hot spots could still impact visibility on 18-mile stretch and Card Sound Road

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – Miami-Dade firefighters continued working with a state and federal Forest Service team facing spot fires in the area where flames burned over 26,000 acres.

The massive fire, which firefighters suspect was the result of arson and was mostly contained Monday, affected the only two roads connecting southern Miami-Dade County and northern Monroe County.

On Monday morning, the Florida Highway Patrol reported the 18-mile stretch and Card Sound Road were open after days of intermittent closures caused long lines and frustrating delays.

While referring to the massive eight-day brush fire as the “344 Fire,” the FFS urged drivers to avoid the area due to both the smoke and the “heavy” emergency response, including engines, tractors, bulldozers, three helicopters, and two fixed-wing airplanes.

Firefighters reported using a “fire retardant” to protect critical infrastructure in the area and The National Weather Service warned about strong winds and low humidity.

The Florida Forest Service asked residents and tourists in the area to avoid outdoor burning, secure trailer chains to prevent sparks, think of safety while disposing of cigarettes, and report smoke or fire immediately to 911.

The Emmy Award-winning journalist joined the Local 10 News team in 2013. She wrote for the Miami Herald for more than 9 years and won a Green Eyeshade Award.