WAYCROSS, Ga. (AP) -- Investigators believe a fire that affected about 500 acres of forest land near the Okefenokee Swamp Park may have been deliberately lit, officials said.
Firefighters fought the blaze throughout the night. It started around noon Wednesday.
District Forest Ranger Frank Sorrells said the blaze was about 80 percent contained, although officials still are concerned about areas that include burning wetlands. He said officials believe the fire could be controlled by fresh firefighting crews Thursday.
No one has been injured and no areas were evacuated.
The Swamp Park was open Thursday morning but it could be closed if officials determine that smoke could make travel in or out of the area more difficult, he said.
Officials asked that nearby residents suspend outdoor burning to prevent fire from rapidly spreading.
