U.S. Wildland Fire Service Responds to the Coptic Fire in Everglades National Park

Contact: Media Contact, 786-610-8023

Contact: Park Information, 305-242-7700

On June 17, a wildfire started by lighting in the northeastern area of Everglades National Park. Named the Coptic Fire, it is now 4,793 acres in size with 40% containment. The fire is located approximately five miles south of U.S. Highway 41 and 3.2 miles west of the L-31N Canal and is burning primarily in prairie habitat.

Firefighters completed burnout operations today to support suppression efforts. Crews and law enforcement personnel will continue monitoring conditions overnight. Tomorrow's operations will focus on full suppression using air resources and additional burnout operations depending on fire behavior.

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service and the National Park Service are coordinating response efforts with the state and Miami-Dade County.

Though there are currently no closures associated with the fire, smoke may impact visibility along U.S. Highway 41. Drivers should use caution and be prepared for changing conditions.

Updates on fire activity and park status will be shared on the park's Alerts & Conditions page and official social media accounts @EvergladesNationalPark and @EvergladesNPS.