Florida Highway Patrol closed Interstate 75/Alligator Alley Wednesday night after smoke from a wildfire in Big Cypress National Preserve reduced visibility to dangerous levels. The closure affects the stretch between Exit 80 in Collier County and Exit 23 in Broward County, impacting traffic across South Florida.

The wildfire has burned approximately 24,000 acres since igniting on February 22. Fire crews created controlled burns to contain the blaze, which has grown from an initial 15,000 acres. Winds from the south have pushed smoke northward over the interstate, creating hazardous driving conditions.

Alternative routes including State Road 29, U.S. 27, and U.S. 41 remain open. Troopers will continue monitoring conditions overnight and provide updates as needed. The Big Cypress National Preserve spans 729,000 acres and is home to diverse wildlife including Florida panthers and black bears.