NAHUNTA, GA — Governor Brian Kemp has declared a State of Emergency for 91 Georgia counties as “exceptional” drought conditions and dry winds fuel a series of devastating wildfires across the southern portion of the state.
The most destructive blaze, the Brantley County Fire, has already destroyed over 90 homes and continues to threaten at least 1,000 more as of Thursday evening.
Brantley County Under Siege: Evacuations Ordered
The situation in Brantley County escalated rapidly Thursday afternoon. While officials initially believed the fire was stabilizing, a massive plume erupted around 2:00 PM, sending flames racing through residential areas.
- Acres Burned: Over 5,000 acres.
- Containment: Only 15% as of Thursday night.
- Evacuation Zones: Immediate evacuations are underway along Browntown Road from Highway 82 to Greenleaf (west side of the highway).
Local law enforcement confirms that while additional resources are arriving hourly, the fire remains unpredictable. “This fire has been escalated just in the past three hours,” reported FOX Weather’s Robert Ray from the scene in Nahunta, where footage showed charred vehicles and the remains of leveled buildings.
The Pineland Road Fire: A Massive Footprint
Further complicating the state’s emergency response is the Pineland Road Fire. While it has not yet seen the same level of structural loss as Brantley County, its sheer size is staggering.
- Acres Burned: 29,606 acres.
- Containment: 10% as of Wednesday.
Statewide Impact and 30-Day Burn Ban
Governor Kemp’s emergency declaration covers nearly 60% of the state’s counties. A strict burn ban is now in effect for 30 days. Residents are prohibited from any outdoor burning as 98.1% of Georgia’s land area currently sits under moderate to exceptional drought conditions.
The fires are also affecting air quality hundreds of miles away. Air Quality Alerts were issued Thursday for the Atlanta metro area and portions of South Carolina as thick smoke drifts north.
Weather Outlook: No Relief in Sight
Meteorologists warn that the danger is far from over. With gusty winds, low humidity, and no rain expected over the next 10 days, fire crews are bracing for a prolonged battle. Despite the massive destruction of property, officials confirmed on Thursday that no injuries or deaths have been reported.
Emergency Resources & Community Check-In
- Check Air Quality: Residents in Atlanta and South Georgia should keep windows closed and limit outdoor activity.
- Evacuation Centers: Check with the Brantley County Sheriff’s Office for the latest shelter locations.
Are you in the affected area? Please use the comments section below to share updates on road closures or to let your neighbors know you are safe. Share this post to ensure your friends and family in the 91 affected counties are aware of the burn ban.
