Watch CBS News

Alligator Alley Reopens After Brush Fire

NAPLES (CBSMiami/AP) – A brush fire burning in the Everglades forced the closure of Alligator Alley in Collier County Tuesday afternoon.

By Tuesday night, all lanes were open, again. Florida Highway Patrol asked drivers to use caution through the night and Wednesday morning.

The road was closed from mile marker 80 (at SR 29) to mile marker 101 for much of Tuesday afternoon.

Traffic was being detoured from the alley down SR 29 to Tamiami Trail.

FHP, Florida Forest Service, and the Golden Gate, North Naples, and East Naples fire departments all responded.

No homes were ever in danger.

The lane closures, according to the Florida Highway Patrol, were to allow firefighters to get the proper equipment to the wildfire.

Ash and smoke were so thick across the highway, visibility was reported near zero at times.

RELATED CONTENT:

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.