Wildfires

Fires that burned about 24,000 acres in Everglades National Park were mostly brought under control on Wednesday, but scientists are keeping an eye on effects from a prolonged drought that could impact Florida Bay, wading birds and the Everglades muck.

U.S. Wildland Fire Service firefighters are on the scene of several fires in Everglades National Park, including the Chipmunk and Vulture fires.

Lake Okeechobee's water level is hovering between 11 feet and a few inches less. While that's more than two feet below its historical average for this time of year, it will take another two feet, and then some, for this drought to cause Lake O to break its low-water mark.

Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson on Tuesday urged caution with fireworks and asked people to follow local burn regulations.

A wildfire of undetermined origin was burning in 52 acres alongside northbound Interstate 75 by mile marker 151 Saturday with smoke and flames visible from the freeway. By Sunday is was mostly contained

A new brush fire broke out earlier this afternoon in Alachua County causing a road closure, reduced visibility, and reduced air quality.

Why is a region of the U.S. more often known for thunderstorms and humidity in spring seeing so many wildfires? Here's what's happening to drive these conditions.

Florida's air quality did not improve in the findings of the most recent report by the American Lung Association. One reason was wildfires, which are persisting throughout the state.

The Florida Forest Service reports more than 130 wildfires are burning across the Sunshine State and have consumed at least 25,000 acres.

More than 100 wildfires are actively burning across Florida, with the largest greatest impacts reported across the northern part of the state.

The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning – the highest weather risk for wildfires – for several counties across the greater area. The warning expires at 8 p.m. Tuesday.

Wildfire activity is increasing across Florida as significant drought conditions persist, with more than 100 fires burning nearly 12,000 acres.