Scrapyard fire near Orlando International Airport sends heavy smoke over Taft area Tuesday afternoon
Fire reported near Landstreet Road and Sidney Hayes Road
A scrapyard fire burned Tuesday, March 10, 2026, in Orange County near Orlando International Airport (MCO), sending a visible smoke plume across parts of Central Florida and drawing an extensive response from Orange County Fire Rescue.
Crews were dispatched to the area of W. Landstreet Road and Sidney Hayes Road in the Taft community. Fire officials identified the burning material as a large pile of scrap metal and said the incident was not threatening nearby structures as of the latest public update Tuesday afternoon.
What responders have confirmed so far
Orange County Fire Rescue reported that the fire involved an estimated 50-by-50-foot pile of scrap metal. Officials also indicated that specialized resources, including a drone team, were operating at the scene to assist with situational awareness and targeting remaining hotspots.
Fire officials said the fire originated from the scrap metal pile itself. No injuries were reported in initial updates, and there were no confirmed evacuations announced in official statements available Tuesday afternoon.
Why scrapyard and scrap-metal fires can be difficult to extinguish
Scrap and recycling-yard fires often involve mixed materials stored in dense piles, which can trap heat and allow fire to smolder below the surface even after visible flames diminish. Responders typically rely on sustained water application and heavy equipment to separate and cool material, a process that can extend operations and keep smoke present even as conditions improve.
Proximity to MCO and what is known about airport impacts
The fire burned in the airport’s vicinity, prompting concern from residents and workers who reported smoke in the area. As of Tuesday afternoon, there were no verified official notices indicating that flight operations at Orlando International Airport were suspended due to this scrapyard fire.
Fire activity near major transportation corridors and critical infrastructure is typically monitored for changing wind, shifting smoke conditions, and visibility concerns. Officials had not announced any structure threats or escalations tied to airport facilities in the updates available Tuesday afternoon.
What to watch next
Containment status and whether crews must remain on scene for overhaul operations.
Any air-quality advisories or local roadway impacts if smoke conditions change.
Follow-up findings on ignition circumstances and whether any hazardous materials were involved.
This incident remained an active, developing situation Tuesday afternoon, with officials indicating the fire was still burning but not threatening structures.