Miami, FL (MSN) – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a fire weather watch for Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties due to dry conditions and gusty winds. The watch is in effect from Friday morning through Friday evening, warning residents of an increased fire risk.

Fire Weather Conditions

While a fire weather watch signals conditions that could fuel wildfires, it differs from a red flag warning, which indicates fire-favorable conditions are actively occurring.

Homestead Fire Continues to Spread

The large brush fire in Homestead, near Florida City, has been burning for over a week, creating travel disruptions and health concerns.

• Acreage burned: 26,437 acres
• Containment: 30% (as of Friday morning)
• Impact: Road closures, air quality concerns

Travel Disruptions & NASCAR Events

The wildfire has forced the closure of Card Sound Road, one of only two routes to the Florida Keys. The alternative route, U.S. 1’s 18-Mile Stretch, has experienced intermittent closures due to heavy smoke.

Despite the ongoing fire, the NASCAR Cup Series events at Homestead-Miami Speedway are set to continue as planned.

Health & Safety Warnings

Authorities urge residents to take precautions:

• Stay indoors if you smell smoke
• Keep doors and windows closed
• Set air conditioning to recirculate mode
• Vulnerable groups (children, elderly, respiratory patients) should take extra care
• Drivers in affected areas should keep windows up and use A/C recirculation mode

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office advises travelers to check road conditions before heading to the Florida Keys.