A fire burning in the Big Cypress National Preserve has increased to 17,594 acres and is now 50 % contained.
An increase in fire activity within the containment lines caused a spot fire west of Nobles Grade, National Preserve Park Officials said.
As a result, the fire increased by 636 acres since Friday.
This is the largest wildfire in the state. It's burning about a mile north of Alligator Alley.
294 personnel are assigned to battle the fire, and equipment resources include seven helicopters, two single engine air tankers and 22 engines.
The following closures remain in place in Big Cypress National Preserve:
• Pink Jeep, Bear Island and Gator Head Campgrounds
• The road leading into the Sanctuary, except to residents
• All trails between State Road 29, L-28 Canal and north of I-75, including that section of the Florida Trail
• All public lands west of the L-28 Canal, north of Alligator Alley and east of State Road 29
