A massive wildfire in South Florida’s Everglades has grown to 25,000 acres, officials reported, after originally starting at 5,000 acres in the Big Cypress National Preserve. The fire, known as “The National Fire,” was first detected Sunday, and both ground and aviation crews have been working to contain it.

Satellite imagery from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows the fire’s dramatic spread, with flames visible even from space. Authorities warned that the wildfire’s extreme behavior is likely to continue due to surface winds and unusually dry air, conditions that can increase fire intensity and cause erratic movement.

In response, burn bans have been issued in Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Highlands, Lee, Martin, Okeechobee, Osceola, Palm Beach, Polk, and St. Lucie counties. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service explained that variable wind patterns near wildfires can produce sudden gusts, further fueling flames and dispersing smoke across wide areas.

No immediate threats to residents have been reported, though officials cautioned that conditions could change rapidly. According to Airnow.gov, investigators determined the fire was started by human activity.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge the public to comply with burn bans and remain alert to updates as crews work to contain the wildfire.