Cancun, Q.R. — A wildfire increasing in size continues to burn outside the city. The wildfire burning is west of Cancun and due to the intensity of smoke, is affecting traffic.
Motorists traveling between Merida and Cancun took photos Sunday as they neared the city. While thick white smoke reduced visibility, flames along the side of the road were an unexpected site.
Flames were photographed burning grass and brush along a section of José López Portillo Avenue as motorists entered the city. The fire gained strength Sunday with the afternoon arrival of strong wind gusts.
Those winds fanned the flames which were able to jump the highway, burning both sides. Thick smoke made the drive into Cancun a slow one.
Personnel from the National Forestry Commission (Conafor) continue to work with elements from the Cancun Fire Department who are assisting in extinguishing the growing blaze.
On May 16, Aquileo Cervantes Álvarez, the Director of the Cancun Fire Department reported 250 hectares already burned due to the fire. Guesstimates now are closer to 300.
Photo: Protección Civil Cancún May 18, 2024.
On May 18, personnel from State Civil Protection toured the fire area by air. At the time, it was still a distance from the highway. In less than 48 hours, it has grown to now include both sides of the highway. It is one of 12 additional fires burning around the state of Quintana Roo.
