BIG PINE KEY BRUSH FIRE 95 PERCENT CONTAINED; CREWS REMAIN ON SCENE; SMOKE CONTINUES

BIG PINE KEY, FL – The Big Pine Key brush fire is 95 percent contained. Monroe County Fire Rescue crews will remain in the area as dry conditions from El Niño and Saharan dust, along with deep-burning fuels, continue to create smoke and small flare-ups.

Monroe County Fire Rescue Station 13 and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office continue to monitor the affected and nearby areas, including overnight patrols. U.S. Wildland Fire Service also has personnel on scene, including an extra engine in the area.

Recent rainfall has helped conditions but has not been enough to end drought conditions. Fire officials say the established control lines remain secure, but dead and down vegetation within the interior fire area continues to burn. Those east of the fire will continue to see and smell smoke. Allowing the fire to consume those fuels reduces the dead vegetation available, which can help prevent future wildfires. Big Pine Key's rockland geology also has little soil to hold moisture in the porous cap rock, which allows the area to continue to smolder.

“Residents should continue to be vigilant due to the dry conditions and report any unattended fire, flames, or smoke that appears to be outside the established fire area by calling 911,” said Monroe County Deputy Chief of Operations Mark Hemeyer. “Dry and hot weather remains a concern throughout the Florida Keys, and residents are urged to remain cautious with any activity that could create a spark or ignition source.”

Several homes east of the fire area continue to experience smoke impacts. Fire personnel have been in direct contact with affected residents and will continue monitoring conditions for them.