Georgia fires

### Daily Wildfire Report for Georgia - March 27, 2025

#### Overview
Georgia is experiencing a heightened wildfire risk due to persistent dry conditions, low humidity, and high winds. The state has seen above-normal wildfire activity in recent months, with multiple active fires and a significant increase in fire danger across various regions.

#### Current Situation
- **Fire Activity:** The Big Ridge wildfire in Rabun County, located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, is the most notable active fire. As of Wednesday, it has grown to approximately 480 acres and remains "zero percent" contained. The fire has spread into the headwaters of Addie Branch, aided by red flag conditions including low relative humidity and high winds[1][3][5].
- **Active Fires:** Besides the Big Ridge wildfire, there have been numerous other fires across the state. Over 1,600 wildfires have been reported in Georgia so far this year, with a significant portion attributed to debris burning, agricultural activities, and escaped prescribed burns[5].
- **Prescribed Burns:** While prescribed burns are not currently active due to the high fire danger, the Georgia Forestry Commission typically conducts these operations to reduce hazardous fuel accumulations. However, all burn permits have been suspended in several counties due to the dangerous conditions[2].

#### Key Details
- **Big Ridge Fire:**
- Located in the Warwoman Wildlife Management Area northeast of Clayton in Rabun County.
- The fire has grown significantly, crossing initial control lines on the northeast side and is now in the headwaters of Addie Branch.
- Firefighters are working on direct attack strategies and constructing control lines around the fire[1][3][5].
- Road and trail closures include Sarah's Creek Campground, Sarah's Creek Road (Forest Service Road 156), Tuckaluge Road (Forest Service Road 153), and Bartram Trail from Warwoman Dell to Hale Ridge Road[1][3].
- **Fire Danger:**
- A Red Flag Warning has been issued for portions of northern Georgia due to high winds and low relative humidity, indicating hazardous fire conditions.
- The dry and windy conditions are expected to continue through most of the week, with the next significant chance of rain predicted for Sunday[2][3].
- **Air Quality:**
- Substantial smoke from the Big Ridge Fire may be visible and could settle into Warwoman Valley at night, affecting air quality in surrounding areas[1][3].

#### Recommendations
- **Public Awareness:**
- Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary outdoor burning and to exercise extreme caution with any fire-related activities.
- Clearing dead brush, leaves, and other flammable debris from properties is crucial to reduce the risk of catastrophic fires.
- Keeping grills away from dry grass, decks, or low-hanging branches and having a hose or fire extinguisher nearby is recommended[2].
- **Resource Allocation:**
- Firefighters are working under challenging conditions, and agencies are urging cooperation from homeowners, hikers, and the general public to prevent and manage wildfires.
- Early detection of fires is key; residents are encouraged to report any smoke or unattended fires immediately by calling 911[2][4].

#### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
- **Georgia Forestry Commission:** [www.gatrees.org](https://www.gatrees.org)
- **National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC):** [www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn](https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn)
- **Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests:** [www.fs.usda.gov/conf](https://www.fs.usda.gov/conf)

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.

#### Fire Weather and Wind Warnings
- A Red Flag Warning is in effect for portions of northern Georgia, indicating high fire danger due to low humidity and gusty winds.
- Winds are expected to be breezy throughout the week, with gusts up to 25-28 mph, contributing to the hazardous fire conditions[2][3].

#### Other Land Management Activities
- **Arson Prevention:** Arson is a significant cause of wildfires in Georgia. Residents are reminded to report any suspicious activities related to wildfires to the Georgia Forestry Commission’s Arson Hotline at 1-800-GA-TREES[4].
- **Prescribed Burns:** Although not currently active due to the high fire danger, prescribed burns are a critical part of the state’s wildfire management strategy. These operations will resume when weather and vegetation conditions allow[2][4].

CITATIONS

['https://accesswdun.com/article/2025/3/1289863/big-ridge-wildfire-continues-to-grow-in-rabun-county', 'https://www.fox5atlanta.com/weather/heightened-wildfire-risk-week-georgia-officials-warn-against-outdoor-burning', 'https://wgtjradio.com/update-chattahoochee-forest-wildfire-nearing-500-acres/', 'https://nowhabersham.com/storms-tamp-daily-fire-danger-but-long-term-risk-remains-from-weather-arson-and-uncontrolled-burns/', 'https://wgtjradio.com/more-than-1600-wildfires-reported-in-ga-in-this-year-red-flag-warning/']