COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. — A massive wildfire continued to burn in the Big Cypress National Preserve on Thursday, sending thick smoke across Alligator Alley as dry conditions persisted across the state.

Local 10 News observed hot spots flaring up along Interstate 75 near mile marker 80.

Nearby, CenturyLink workers were seen repairing burnt-up fiber lines that had previously impacted local cell service.

While crews were still active Thursday, conditions on Wednesday were significantly worse. A heavy beige haze settled over Alligator Alley between mile markers 75 and 80.

“It is a lot thicker than fog or mist would be,” said Josiah Meiring, who was on-site Wednesday to support equipment repairs for ground crews. “The smoke goes clear north of LaBelle, Florida, which is easily 70 miles north of right here.”

Plumes of thick smoke rose as crews worked to tame persistent bursts of flames from the “National fire” on federal land at the edge of the preserve. The current operation is focused on defense: keeping the massive burn contained south of I-75, which serves as a vital fire break.

“These fires tend to jump around and they are carried by the wind,” Meiring said.

Officials with the National Park Service told Local 10 News that recent frost damage, paired with persistent drought conditions, fueled the fire’s expansion. They said they’re now working to contain the blaze within a designated perimeter.

“South Florida is home to a lot of wildfires; this is not anything out of the ordinary, particularly right now when we have a drought this time of year,” Meiring said. “One ember gets carried with the wind and lands in another dry spot, and then it takes off.”

As of Thursday afternoon, the fire was up to 24,000 acres, but no one was directly impacted.

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