South Florida is heading into a stretch of warmer, dry weather as firefighters battle an active wildfire in northwestern Broward County.
Sunday began on a cool note, but sunshine and pleasant conditions are expected through the afternoon, with highs reaching the mid-70s across the region. Beachgoers are urged to use caution due to a high rip current risk, and a small craft advisory remains in effect for Atlantic waters.
Temperatures will continue climbing throughout the workweek, with highs rising into the upper 70s and lower 80s. Morning lows will start in the mid- to upper 50s Monday before becoming more seasonable later in the week. Dry conditions are expected to persist, with only a slight chance of isolated showers by Friday or Saturday.
Meanwhile, the Florida Forest Service reports that the “Buggy Fire,” burning near the Holey Land Wildlife Management Area, has scorched approximately 3,500 acres since igniting Saturday. As of the latest update, the fire remains 0% contained.
Smoke from the wildfire may reduce visibility along Interstate 75 and Alligator Alley. The National Weather Service reported limited visibility between mile markers 32 and 35 Sunday morning. Light north to northeasterly winds have also caused minor air quality concerns in parts of Miami-Dade County.
Forecasters expect winds to shift later Sunday, which should direct much of the smoke away from densely populated areas in Broward and Miami-Dade counties.
The wildfire comes as drought conditions intensify across South Florida. The latest drought monitor shows expanding areas categorized as “severe” and “extreme” within local counties. With little rainfall in the forecast, dry conditions are expected to continue for much of the week.