Crews battle massive wildfire burning in Florida Everglades

The fire, known as the “Max Road Fire,” broke out on Sunday.

(CNN)- Firefighters continue battling a massive wildfire burning in the Florida Everglades as drought conditions across the state fuel concerns about the blaze spreading.

The fire, known as the “Max Road Fire,” broke out Sunday and has prompted nearby residents to remain on alert as crews work to contain the flames.

“Pretty much, yes,” resident Audrey Gonzalez said when asked if she spent the night “sleeping with one eye open.”

Residents living near the fire described seeing and hearing the flames approach their communities.

“We could hear it crackling. That’s how bad it was,” said West Broward resident Roxanne Gill. “I had to hose down my house. Everyone was hosing down all their trailers before the fire department came.”

Large portions of Florida are currently experiencing severe to extreme drought conditions, creating an environment highly vulnerable to wildfires.

“Very, very concerned,” Gonzalez said. “Coming out in the middle of the night just to make sure that it wasn’t coming towards our way.”

Firefighters are attacking the blaze both from the ground and from the air as emergency officials continue monitoring conditions.

Authorities have also positioned police and fire-rescue crews near nearby communities as a precaution.

Emergency management officials said there is currently no immediate threat to residents, but they continue urging people to closely monitor changing weather and fire conditions.

Some residents have already started preparing evacuation plans in case the fire moves closer.

“We’re keeping an eye on things,” resident Vilma Rodriguez said. “We’ve already set aside some things in case we have to leave.”

Others are taking additional steps to protect their homes while hoping weather conditions improve.

“We’re just going to have to keep watch and do what we can to protect our house and pray that the wind stays to the west,” Gonzalez said.