Overview:
A fast-moving wildfire in Big Cypress National Preserve forced the overnight closure of a 57-mile stretch of Interstate 75, also known as Alligator Alley, between Collier and Broward counties. The fire, believed to be human-caused, has grown to approximately 25,000 acres amid prolonged dry conditions across Florida.
Although I-75 reopened early Thursday morning, authorities warn that smoke and visibility issues may continue in parts of Southwest Florida. Presence News provides a breakdown of what happened, where the closure occurred, and what drivers should expect moving forward.
A major stretch of Interstate 75 in Southwest Florida — known as Alligator Alley — has reopened after wildfire smoke forced a nine-hour overnight closure.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, all lanes of I-75 were shut down around 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25, due to dangerously low visibility caused by heavy smoke drifting across the roadway. The interstate reopened at approximately 6 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 26.
Where the Closure Occurred
The shutdown impacted a 57-mile stretch of I-75 between:
- Exit 80 (State Road 29) in Collier County
- Exit 23 (U.S. 27) in Broward County
Both eastbound and westbound lanes were closed between mile markers 23 and 80 for more than nine hours.
Although the road has reopened, the Florida Highway Patrol is warning drivers that smoke and reduced visibility remain possible, advising motorists to proceed with caution.
The Fire: Big Cypress National Preserve
The smoke originated from a wildfire burning inside Big Cypress National Preserve, located about 45 miles west of Miami and roughly 60 miles east of Naples.
Officials report:
- The fire began Sunday, Feb. 22
- It has grown to approximately 25,000 acres
- The blaze is believed to be human-caused, according to federal listings
The National Weather Service Miami reported early Thursday morning that smoke was drifting west and southwest across Collier County, bringing continued low visibility and deteriorating air quality in some inland and metro areas.
Meteorologists note that dry conditions began Feb. 19 and are expected to persist through May 31, creating an elevated wildfire risk across much of Florida.
Air Quality & Travel Conditions
While I-75 has reopened, travelers across Southwest Florida may still encounter:
- Pockets of dense smoke
- Rapidly changing visibility conditions
- Potential air quality impacts
Drivers are encouraged to:
- Use headlights in low-visibility conditions
- Reduce speed
- Allow extra following distance
Wildfire Prevention: Protecting Your Home
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Florida Division of Forestry recommend creating “defensible space” around homes.
Within 30 feet of your home:
- Remove dead vegetation from yards, roofs, and gutters
- Trim tree branches away from roofs and chimneys
- Move woodpiles away from structures
- Maintain spacing between trees and flammable items
30–60 feet:
- Cut grass to 4 inches or shorter
- Clear fallen leaves and small debris
- Create separation between shrubs and trees
60–100 feet:
- Remove low-growing vegetation beneath pine trees
- Maintain spacing between plant clusters
Regional Context
Alligator Alley is a critical transportation corridor connecting Southwest Florida to South Florida. Closures of this magnitude can significantly impact commuters, freight transport, and emergency services.
With Florida entering a prolonged dry season, officials are urging heightened caution regarding outdoor burning and ignition sources.
Presence News will continue monitoring developments related to the Big Cypress wildfire and any additional roadway or air quality advisories.
Sources:
Story sent in by reader Brenda
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