Contact: Media Contact, 786-897-1053

Contact: Park Information, 305-242-7700

HOMESTEAD, Fla. - U.S. Wildland Fire Service firefighters are responding to several fires in Everglades National Park, including the Chipmunk and Vulture fires.

The Chipmunk Fire was first reported Aug. 21 and is located about two miles southwest of Shark Valley. The lightning-caused fire is estimated to be approximately 9,232 acres and is 30% contained.

The Vulture Fire was first reported Aug. 22 and is located east of the Shark Valley Tram Road. Also caused by lightning, the fire is approximately 286 acres and 60% contained.

To protect park resources and allow firefighters to continue suppression efforts, an emergency closure order is now in effect for the entire Shark Valley area. The closure includes all administrative and public facilities, including the visitor center, trails, parking lots and Shark Valley Tram Road.

Firefighters are actively working to contain the fires through a combination of direct suppression along the fire edges and indirect tactics that use natural barriers to limit fire spread. Engines, crews and aircraft are supporting operations. Additional resources will be added if needed.

Fire activity remains active on the north end and east side of the Chipmunk Fire, with fire backing to the south. On the Vulture Fire, fire activity is occurring in the southeast corner and has received some precipitation. Smoke is visible from Main Park Road and U.S. Highway 41, though no closures of U.S. Highway 41 are expected at this time. Airboat concessions are currently operational.

For updated fire information and park status, visit Everglades National Park's Alerts & Conditions page: https://www.nps.gov/ever/planyourvisit/conditions.htm.