Crews battle large brush fire in Miami-Dade County

Florida Forest Service: Total size of fire reaches more than 1,000 acres

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – Miami-Dade Fire Rescue crews are battling a large brush fire in the area of Southwest 162nd Avenue from Southwest 42nd Street to Eighth Street.

MDFR officials said approximately 300 acres have already burned, with the blaze reaching beyond 1,000 acres in total. Fourteen units are on the scene, where water drops are being performed.

Southwest Eighth Street has been shut down as crews fight the fire on both the north and south side of the street. One business has been evacuated. No injuries have been reported.

"Residents in the area of the SW Dade grass fire with respiratory problems are advised to stay indoors and avoid inhaling smoke," MDFR officials said Sunday night.

Despite the fear, many residents in the area spent their Sunday night outside taking in the sights, smells and sounds of the brush fire.

"You see the smoke -- everything. You see the ashes coming down and it's really scary," said Ashlyn, a resident in the area.

Breathtaking video shot by David Chiro and his drone camera caught an incredible view from the air.

According to Florida Power & Light, anywhere between 100 and 500 customers lost power due to the fire. They are now waiting to return power to about 180 customers. FPL said power lines were shut down in the area due to unsafe conditions for first responders.

Once the fire is contained and the conditions are safe, the power will be turned back on, according to MDFR.

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About the Author:

Liane Morejon is an Emmy-winning reporter who joined the Local 10 News family in January 2010. Born and raised in Coral Gables, Liane has a unique perspective on covering news in her own backyard.