A large warehouse fire in Miami-Dade County has prompted health warnings for residents after thick smoke spread across nearby communities and reduced air quality.
Officials from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue urged people living within a five-mile radius of the blaze to remain indoors as much as possible. The agency sent emergency alerts to residents’ phones warning that shifting winds could push smoke into surrounding areas.
Authorities advised residents—particularly those with respiratory or medical conditions—to keep windows and doors closed and use ventilation systems on recirculation mode to limit smoke entering their homes.
The fire began Thursday morning at a warehouse located at 20600 Northwest 47th Avenue. Fire Chief Ray Jadallah said the blaze could continue burning for several days after the building’s roof collapsed, trapping large amounts of materials beneath the debris.
Medical experts warn that smoke from large fires can pose serious health risks. Dr. Jason Mansour, director of Broward Health Medical Center, said exposure to smoke may include carbon monoxide, which can lead to dangerous symptoms.
Signs of carbon monoxide exposure may include:
-
Headaches
-
Dizziness
-
Confusion or disorientation
Mansour said anyone experiencing these symptoms after smoke exposure should seek immediate medical evaluation at an emergency room.
Health officials also recommend avoiding strenuous outdoor activities until air quality improves. The warning affects parts of both Miami-Dade County and neighboring Broward County as firefighters continue battling the blaze