What's that burning smell? How to protect yourself from smoke in Seminole County

Smoke trapped on I-4 in Seminole County: What causes this?

Those traveling along Interstate 4 in Seminole County early Friday morning should expect lingering smoke caused by a temperature inversion trapping air pollution near the surface. Meteorologists expect the haze to dissipate as temperatures rise by late morning.

SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. - For those traveling on Interstate-4 in Seminole County in the early hours of Friday morning, expect to experience smoke lingering in the area. 

While meteorologists expect the smoke to dissipate by late morning, experts provide health and safety tips for high air pollution conditions. 

What we know:

What appears to viewed as fog over I-4 is actually smoke drifting from a burn over Seminole County around 6 a.m., April 17. 

Smoke traveling in Lake County on April 17, 2026. 

FOX 35's Brooks Garner described a temperature inversion occurring – trapping much of the air pollution to the surface. 

"As the day progresses, and it warms up, that smoke should start to mix out," Garner said. 

Where is the smoke coming from? 

A spokesperson for Seminole County reported the smoke is likely from a 200-acre prescribed burn in the Wekiva River Basin that occurred on Thursday. County officials predict the smoke to be residual from that burn. 

The Florida Fire Service reported an active 10-acre fire in Lake County on its website. As of 6 a.m., that fire was 80% contained. It's not known if this fire is prescribed or not. 

Additionally, weather satellites – which predict hot spots – detected several fires in the Rock Springs Run State Reserve, north of Apopka, in Lake County. 

Protecting yourself from the smoke

Anyone can get sick from inhaling smoke, but people with asthma, heart disease and lung disease are at higher risk, the American Public Health Association says. Additionally, children or people who are pregnant are also at risk. 

Breathing in smoke can cause coughing, wheezing, trouble breathing, asthma attacks, scratchy throats and more. 

Here are three things you can do to protect yourself: 

1. Stay indoors

Experts say the best way to protect yourself from the smoke is to remain indoors. 

Heavy smoke and ash can pose immediate health and safety risks, the United States Environmental Protection Agency says. 

Though the lingering smoke smell may travel indoors, experts say to avoid breathing smoke – both outdoors and indoors – if you can help it. Smoke can travel indoors through open windows, doors or through mechanical ventilation, such as bathroom or kitchen fans, the EPA says. 

2. Wear a N95 mask

The American Public Health Association suggests wearing a N95 to protect yourself outside – though noting that having the right size mask is key. 

3. Prepare to evacuate

Those living in the area may be asked to evacuate for their safety and should be prepared to do so.