FLORIDA — Wildfire smoke from the Everglades is expanding northward across Southwest Florida as shifting winds ahead of an approaching front push thicker plumes into populated areas, sending air quality readings into unhealthy territory in parts of Collier County.
Air quality maps show red indicators across portions of Southwest Florida, with Naples registering an AQI of 159 and Marco Island at 154, both firmly in the “Unhealthy” category.
Winds Shifting North and Northwest
Meteorological data indicates winds are turning more north to northwest, steering smoke away from the southern Everglades and pushing it toward:
- Naples
- Marco Island
- Cape Coral
- Potentially north toward the Tampa Bay region
The smoke plume visualization shows thick concentration bands lifting northward and inland from fire zones near the southern Everglades and adjacent conservation areas.
Overnight Visibility Concerns
Heavy smoke reduced visibility along key roadways overnight, prompting the temporary closure of Alligator Alley, a major east–west corridor connecting South Florida to the Gulf Coast.
Authorities have since reopened the roadway, but lingering haze remains a concern as smoke continues to shift northward.
Air Quality Levels Explained
According to AQI standards:
- 151–200: Unhealthy
- 101–150: Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
- 51–100: Moderate
- 0–50: Good
With Naples and Marco Island currently above 150, residents — particularly those with respiratory conditions, children, and the elderly — are advised to limit prolonged outdoor exposure…