SHADY GROVE

Fire Start, Size and Growth

Start Date/Time/Location: The Shady Grove Fire ignited on April 28, 2026, at approximately 10:35 a.m. local time. The fire is located in Russell County, Alabama, approximately 13.4 miles south-southwest of Crawford.
Size and Containment: As of the latest reporting over the last 72 hours, the fire has burned approximately 522 acres and is currently 30% contained.
Fuels, Growth and Rate of Spread: The fire has been primarily fueled by dry brush (approximately 2 feet high), southern rough, and roadside vegetation. While it initially spread through these highly receptive dry fuels, recent observations indicate that the fire is currently exhibiting minimal fire behavior.
Containment Efforts: The Alabama Forestry Commission is the lead agency responding to the incident. Fire crews are actively monitoring containment lines and utilizing resources to prevent further spread. Personnel remain on high alert as the combination of dry ground and receptive fuels continues to pose a threat of new flare-ups.

Emergency Information

Evacuations and Sheltering:
Mandatory Evacuation Orders: I cannot find any information regarding mandatory evacuation orders for the Shady Grove Fire.
Evacuation Warnings: I cannot find any information regarding evacuation warnings for the surrounding areas.
Evacuation Shelters and Information: I cannot find any information regarding evacuation shelters or displaced persons for this incident.

Road and Infrastructure Closures:
I cannot find any information regarding road, school, or infrastructure closures related to the Shady Grove Fire at this time.

For more information, visit:

• Alabama Forestry Commission
• Russell County Emergency Management Agency
• ALGO Traffic - Alabama Official Road Closures

Current Impact

Impacts:
Injuries and Fatalities: I cannot find any information regarding injuries or fatalities related to the Shady Grove Fire.
Structures Impacted: I cannot find any information regarding structures damaged, destroyed, or threatened by this fire, nor any notable people or landmarks impacted.
School and Business Closures: I cannot find any information on school or business closures.

Safety Concerns:
Power Outages: I cannot find any information regarding power outages in the affected area.
Water Safety: No specific water safety concerns have been reported at this time.
Burn Bans: Due to critically dry conditions, the Alabama Forestry Commission has issued a statewide Fire Alert. Standard burning permits are restricted, and only Certified Prescribed Burn Managers with adequate manpower and equipment may be issued a permit to conduct burns.
Air Quality: While specific air quality alerts for Russell County have not been detailed, smoke from the fire may pose health risks to vulnerable populations. Residents with respiratory conditions are advised to monitor local conditions and limit outdoor exposure if smoke is present.

Ongoing Outlook

Containment Projections: Firefighters have achieved 30% containment and will continue to reinforce and monitor these lines over the coming days. Efforts are heavily focused on preventing any flare-ups or new starts, as the surrounding dry ground and receptive fuels remain a significant hazard.
Weather and Wind Warnings: The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warnings for parts of central and northern Alabama due to critical fire weather conditions. A strong drying trend is expected to continue into the week, bringing sunny skies, warmer temperatures, and dropping humidity levels, which will keep fire danger elevated across the region.

Cause and the Role of Weather and Climate

Cause: The exact cause of the Shady Grove Fire is currently unknown and remains under investigation.
Weather and Climate: Extreme climate conditions are playing a major role in ongoing fire activity. Alabama is currently experiencing severe and worsening drought conditions, with reports indicating that 100% of the state is in a drought and 46% is classified under extreme drought. A very dry airmass over the Deep South has created an atmosphere highly favorable for wildfires, exacerbating the fire's initial spread and complicating containment efforts. Current local weather in Russell County remains sunny and dry, with humidity levels hovering between 41% and 55%.

For more information, visit:

• Alabama Forestry Commission Wildfire Information
• Russell County Emergency Management Agency
• WFCA Fire Map