Highway 41 Fire explodes to 2 023 ha (5 000 acres) near Everglades National Park, Florida
The Highway 41 Fire west of Miami, Florida, doubled in size to approximately 2 023 ha (5 000 acres) between April 27 and April 28, 2026, with no containment reported. Authorities have closed sections of Everglades National Park as smoke impacts travel along U.S. Route 41.
Smoke and flames from the Highway 41 Fire burning inside Everglades National Park in west Miami-Dade on April 28, 2026. Credit: Everglades National Park
The Highway 41 Fire ignited at 17:14 LT on April 27, approximately 9.6 km (6 miles) west of Miami, and expanded rapidly under wind-driven conditions, with containment remaining at 0% as of the latest update.
Fire crews are working in fuels composed of tall grass and brush about 0.76 m (2.5 feet) high, where active fire behavior includes wind-driven runs, flanking, and backing. High winds, shifting wind directions, and low relative humidity are maintaining conditions favorable for continued spread.
The fire is burning sawgrass terrain in the Everglades National Park’s northeastern sector, moving south and west.
At 17:40 LT on April 28, the park estimated the fire’s size at 1 012 ha (2 500 acres). By 20:53 LT the blaze had exploded and doubled in size, burning over 2 023 ha (5 000 acres), according to InciWeb.
“For the safety of the public and firefighters, closures are in place between the L-67 and L-31 canals, from U.S. Route 41 (Tamiami Trail) south to north of Mahogany Hammock. This includes all parking areas, facilities, and waterways. Coopertown Airboats, Safari Park, and Gator Park are also closed. Please contact those businesses directly with any questions,” said the Everglades National Park officials.
U.S. Route 41 remains open, but authorities warned that temporary closures are possible as smoke reduces visibility, particularly during nighttime and early morning hours. Drivers have been advised to slow down, use low-beam headlights, and remain alert for emergency personnel.
No structural damage, injuries, or evacuations have been confirmed.
Rishav Kothari is Editor-in-Chief of The Watchers, where he runs the newsroom and covers earthquakes, volcanoes, severe weather and space weather.
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