Visitors warned of high fire danger in Everglades

Everglades National Park has been placed under a Very High fire danger warning due to a persistent drought in Southeast Florida. A park news release warns that important cultural sites, animal habitat, and pine stands would be especially susceptible to catastrophic damage should a fire break out.

According to the Miami Travel Examiner, Everlades NP officials said fires caused by people are the greatest threat. They ask all visitors to be especially cautious with activities such as driving vehicles off improved roads, cigarette smoking, and campfires.

Fire patrols have been increased along the park’s eastern boundary, in campgrounds, and in other areas that attract many visitors.

Everglades National Park, the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, boasts rare and endangered species and has been designated a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, and Wetland of International Importance, significant to all people of the world.