Brush fire burns more than 2,500 acres near Turkey Point

Fire 50 percent contained, forestry officials say

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – A brush fire has burned 2,500 acres near the Turkey Point Nuclear Generating Station, forestry officials said on Monday.

The fire, burning near 10100 SW 344th St., is 50 percent contained.

Forestry officials said the fire, which has been dubbed the Mother's Day Fire, was called in about 11:30 a.m. Sunday.

Officials said it was sparked by equipment from an off-road vehicle.

Miami-Dade firefighters are assisting forestry units in combating the flames.

According to a news release from Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam,  2,163 wildfires have burned over 170,000 acres in Florida this year, with 127 active wildfires still burning as of Monday.

"Even with rain across large parts of Florida over the weekend, Florida is still experiencing drought conditions and elevated wildfire danger, and will continue to for some time," Putnam said in a statement. "Residents and visitors need to pay attention to and comply with local burn bans and should take every precaution to help prevent wildfire."

Putnam said conditions are forecast to get even drier and warmer into late spring and early summer. May is traditionally one of the driest months of the year in Florida. 


About the Author:

Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.