Size of Highway 41 Fire in west Miami-Dade "increased significantly" forcing officials to close parts of Everglades National Park

A wildfire burning inside Everglades National Park in west Miami-Dade has "increased significantly in size" since it broke out on Monday night as crews continue working to contain and extinguish the blaze.

The wildfire, known as the Highway 41 Fire, is burning in the northeastern corner of Everglades National Park. According to the National Park Service, the Highway 41 Fire is currently located south of U.S. Route 41 (Tamiami Trail) and east of Shark Valley.

The Highway 41 Fire has grown to 3,364 acres and is 0% contained. It's currently burning in sawgrass as it moves to the south and west, the NPS said.

"Aviation and ground resources will focus on securing containment boundaries using direct, indirect and firing operations as needed," the NPS said in a statement to CBS News Miami.

The NPS said Everglades National Park has closed the area between L-67 Canal on the west, and L-31 Canal on the east from U.S. Route 41 south to several miles north of Mahogany Hammock.

"To ensure firefighter and public safety, this closure includes all parking lots, facilities and navigable waterways within these areas," the NPS said. "Due to the predicted dry weather conditions and active fire behavior, Coopertown Airboats, Safari Park and Gator Park businesses will also be closed."

Drivers traveling through the area are urged to exercise caution, reduce speed and use low-beam headlights in smoky conditions, allow for extra travel time, be alert for emergency personnel and equipment operating along roadways, and monitor local traffic updates and emergency alerts. 

The NPS said that impacts from wildfire smoke are expected along U.S. Route 41, and temporary road closures may be implemented if conditions in the area deteriorate. Businesses in the area are closed until further notice. 

The cause of the fire is still undetermined by authorities and no structures appear to be impacted as of Tuesday evening. 

More details of the Highway 41 Fire will be posted on the NPS website.