South Florida is currently dealing with a large wildfire, and it now has officials’ attention as it exploded to 25,000 acres in size.
According to the National Park Service, two fires were located Sunday at the Everglades’ Big Cypress National Preserve. (RELATED: Seattle Rattled By Magnitude 3.2 Earthquake)
Known as “The National Fire,” it originally spread up to 5,000 acres, with aviation and ground crews both working to quash the blaze Sunday.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) satellite footage reveals how the fire became so severe and erupted to 25,000 acres, even being seen from space.
The #NationalFire burning in Florida has now exploded to 25,000 acres in size. The #wildfire ignited yesterday in Big Cypress National Preserve and @NOAA‘s #GOESEast (#GOES19) 🛰️ has been tracking the smoke plume and heat from the blaze. @NWSMiami is cautioning residents about… pic.twitter.com/yXSIBlDjKx
— NOAA Satellites (@NOAASatellites) February 24, 2026
The amplified behavior of the wildfire is anticipated to persist, and in response, burn bans have been issued in the counties of Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Highlands, Lee, Martin, Okeechobee, Osceola, Palm Beach County, Polk and St. Lucie. According to officials, surface winds and extremely dry air are providing aid in the flames‘ strength.
“Wind fields in the vicinity of wildland fires can be highly variable or turbulent, exhibiting significant gusts that can lead to erratic fire behavior and enhanced mixing of smoke into the atmosphere,” reads a statement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service. (RELATED: Northeast Threatened By More Snowfall Events After Being Blasted By Record-Breaking Winter Storm Hernando)
No immediate threats to locals have been reported by officials, however, things could change quickly due to conditions that are favorable.
The wildfire was produced by man, according to Airnow.gov.