Georgia Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Georgia - May 13, 2026

Overview

Georgia is experiencing an elevated fire risk driven by compounding environmental factors, including an extreme and historic drought across the southern half of the state. These underlying drought conditions, combined with above-normal temperatures and leftover timber debris from Hurricane Helene, have created a highly combustible environment. In response to the severe conditions and ongoing incidents, a state of emergency was previously declared for 91 Georgia counties.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the last 72 hours, firefighting crews have made significant and encouraging progress. The Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) reported zero new wildfires statewide over a multi-day stretch, marking the first days without a new fire start since December. Despite this slowdown, officials warn that persistent drought conditions mean a single spark could easily ignite new, extreme fire activity. Firefighters remain actively engaged in patrol, suppression, and mop-up operations on existing large fires.

Key Fires:
Pineland Road Fire: Located in Clinch and Echols Counties, this fire has burned 32,575 acres and is currently 90% contained. The fire was caused by a stray spark from a welding operation that fell to the forest floor. It continues to burn through heavy southern rough fuels and bays. Crews are working to hold the fire within strategic containment boundaries and are actively engaged in patrol, suppression, and mop-up operations.

Highway 82 Fire: Located in Brantley County, this highly destructive fire has burned 22,420 acres and is currently 90% contained. The fire was caused by a mylar balloon that came into contact with a power line. Fueled by drought-stressed forests, deep organic soils, and significant needle cast, the fast-moving flames have destroyed at least 54 homes. Crews are utilizing engines, heavy equipment, and sprinkler systems to mop up deep organic soils and clear containment lines.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: As of May 12, the State Forester lifted the 91-county wildfire burn ban due to improved conditions and firefighter efforts. However, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) annual summer open burning ban remains in effect for 54 counties (primarily in the metro Atlanta area) through September 30 to protect air quality and reduce ground-level ozone.

Air Quality: Wildfire smoke from the large South Georgia fires has drifted significantly, impacting air quality and prompting haze concerns as far north as metro Atlanta, as well as pushing unhealthy air into neighboring areas like Jacksonville, Florida. Residents in these areas should be aware and use caution.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: The region has been experiencing near-record heat, with temperatures reaching 90 degrees or above, contributing to the critically dry environment.
Forecasted Weather: A Fire Weather Warning has been issued for areas east of U.S. 301 due to critically low humidity and the ongoing drought. However, there is some relief in the forecast; scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms are possible across southeast Georgia, with current models showing the potential for 1 to 2 inches of rain as an unsettled weather pattern continues into the weekend.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are strongly advised to avoid active fire areas and keep fire equipment clear on roadways. The GFC also reminds the public to keep drones out of wildfire airspace, as aircraft are still actively working to suppress the fires. Please continue following guidance from local officials and emergency personnel, and use caution in areas where smoke may reduce visibility.
Resource Allocation: With containment improving, crews are focused on patrolling and securing the perimeter of the major fires, utilizing heavy equipment and sprinkler systems to extinguish hot spots in deep organic soils. State agencies continue to monitor the situation closely, maintaining readiness should new fires ignite due to the dry conditions.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Georgia Forestry Commission: gatrees.org

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.