In a dramatic incident on Wednesday, multiple vehicles caught fire within the Flamingo Garage at Miami International Airport (MIA), sending thick plumes of smoke into the air. The fire, reported shortly after 11:35 a.m., affected several cars and prompted immediate response from local authorities. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the event caused significant disruption to airport operations.

Details of the Incident

In the heart of a busy mid-week morning, an alarming situation unfolded at the Flamingo Garage of Miami International Airport. Around 11:35 a.m., eyewitnesses spotted dense smoke emanating from between the first and second floors. Upon investigation, it was discovered that four gas-powered vehicles had caught fire, with eight nearby cars sustaining damage. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue's Acting North District Chief Rogelio Vandamas confirmed that the blaze was swiftly brought under control by responding crews.

Aerial footage captured by Chopper 6 vividly showed the extent of the smoke as emergency personnel rushed to the scene. Authorities stated that all involved vehicles were fueled by gasoline, ruling out electric vehicles as potential sources of ignition. Officials are currently working to notify the owners of the affected vehicles while fire investigators delve into determining the cause and origin of the incident. Additionally, crews are inspecting the garage for any structural damage.

To mitigate the effects of the smoke, ventilation efforts were intensified, leading to the temporary closure of the Flamingo Garage. The entrance to the Dolphin Garage was also briefly shut down but later reopened. Moreover, the people mover train connecting MIA to the rental car center experienced a brief halt before resuming service.

This event highlights the importance of stringent safety measures and rapid response protocols in high-traffic areas like airports. It serves as a reminder for both travelers and facility managers to remain vigilant and prepared for unexpected situations. The swift action taken by the fire department prevented what could have been a more catastrophic outcome, reinforcing the critical role of emergency services in safeguarding public spaces.