Map shows latest wildfires across Georgia and Florida
USA Today • • nation
Key Points:
- Wildfires fueled by extreme drought are burning across southern Georgia and northeast Florida, leading to road closures and destruction of homes and buildings.
- Georgia has issued its first-ever mandatory burn ban, affecting more than half of its counties, prohibiting outdoor burning of trash, yard debris, agricultural material, campfires, fireworks, and burn barrels for at least 30 days.
- Approximately half a dozen wildfires are active in Georgia, including the Pineland Road fire in Clinch County, which has spread to nearly 9,000 acres and is 10% contained.
- Florida is battling 135 wildfires covering nearly 21,000 acres, with road closures in Franklin and Levy counties due to heavy smoke, prompting caution from local law enforcement.
- Officials warn that 98% of Georgia is experiencing moderate to exceptional drought, increasing wildfire risks, and urge residents to comply with burn bans and safety guidance to protect agriculture, forestry, and communities.
