Wildfire Explodes to 25,000 Acres in Collier County Amid Red Flag Warning

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. — A rapidly growing brush fire has scorched approximately 25,000 acres in eastern Collier County and remains 0% contained, according to fire officials battling the blaze under dangerous Red Flag conditions.

Thick smoke has reduced visibility along Alligator Alley (Interstate 75) and U.S. 41, particularly near Big Cypress National Preserve, Ochopee, and Everglades City. Authorities are urging motorists to use caution as smoke drifts across major roadways, at times creating near-zero visibility.

Dangerous Fire Conditions

The wildfire is one of several brush fires currently burning across Southwest Florida. The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag warnings, signaling critical fire weather driven by dry vegetation, low humidity, and gusty winds. These conditions allow fires to spread rapidly and unpredictably.

Fire crews from multiple agencies are working around the clock, deploying ground units, bulldozers, and water-dropping aircraft in an effort to slow the fire’s advance. However, shifting winds have complicated containment strategies.

“This is extremely volatile fire weather,” one incident commander said. “Until we get significant rainfall or a break in the wind, containment will remain challenging.”

Earlier Fire Near Alligator Alley

The large blaze follows an earlier brush fire that ignited near Alligator Alley, where flames and smoke were visible from Interstate 75. That fire added to already hazardous travel conditions and underscored the region’s escalating wildfire risk.

Officials have not yet announced evacuations but say they are closely monitoring the situation. Residents in rural and low-lying areas are advised to stay alert for emergency notifications and avoid outdoor burning.

Ongoing Risk

With drought conditions persisting and no meaningful rain in the immediate forecast, authorities warn that the wildfire threat across Collier County and the broader Southwest Florida region remains high.

Drivers are encouraged to:

• Reduce speed in smoky areas

• Use low-beam headlights

• Avoid stopping on roadways

• Check traffic updates before traveling

Fire officials say updates on containment progress and road impacts will be provided as conditions change.

This is a developing story.