Rare ‘fire tornado’ caught on camera during Florida controlled burn

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — A rare “fire tornado” was caught on camera Monday during a controlled burn in Volusia County.

The fiery vortex swirled for about a minute before eventually fizzling out.

There was no threat to nearby residents or property, according to officials.

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WESH reports the phenomenon occurs when intense heat from a fire causes air to rapidly rise. The rising air creates a vacuum effect, pulling in surrounding air and potentially creating a spinning column of air and flames.

Fire tornadoes, also known as fire whirls, can form under the right conditions when heat, wind, and the movement of air interact.