Ochopee, FL - On Thursday May 7, 2020 the Moon Fish Wildfire was discovered just south of Loop Road in the southeast corner of Big Cypress National Preserve and close to the Everglades National Park boundary. The source of the fire was human caused, a truck fire, and the individual has been cited.
As of 1700 today, the wildfire is approximately 12,181 acres and actively burning in sawgrass and cypress. Full suppression actions are being implemented with direct attack operations. Aerial resources are being used to directly limit fire spread. Aerial and ground resources are on scene to support direct attack and burn out operations. There is a high spread potential due to gusty winds.
Smoke impacts along Highway US 41, the Miccosukee Community area and the greater Miami area, are likely depending on the winds and fuels in which the fire is burning. Loop Road is closed to traffic at this time due to smoke and firefighter safety.
Only local traffic will be allowed on Loop Road, please be alert to firefighters and equipment along the road as you drive to your residence. For your safety please call Florida Highway Patrol, 1-800-459-6861, before driving across US 41 to find out if it has been closed due to smoke.
Values threatened include local communities, Hwy US 41, natural and cultural resources. Personnel from USFS, USFWS, BLM and BIA are assisting Big Cypress and Everglades Fire and Aviation, with Miami-Dade Fire Rescue assisting in structure protection.
Current resources assigned include: 3-Type 3 helicopters; 1-Type 1 helicopter; 3 Single Engine Air Tankers (SEATs); 1 Air Attack, 1 type 3 engine; 1 type 6 engine; 1 Buggie; 1 Type 2 IA crew.
Any questions/concerns, please contact James Sullivan, Fire Management Officer: (305) 546-9358 Mike O’Leary, Big Cypress Fire Duty Officer: (239) 719-0241 or Michael Gue, Everglades Fire Duty Officer: (305) 242-7850 / (305) 902-8183.
Updates will be provided on Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades National Park websites and social media.
Tags: wildfire response wildfire
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
