Wildfire danger surges statewide

The wildfire on White County’s Buzzard Mountain is now fully contained, but crews remain on site to watch for flare-ups as dry conditions continue to raise the fire threat statewide.

The Buzzard Mountain Fire in Northeast Georgia is one of several incidents during an already active wildfire season. And there are at least two-and-a-half more months to go.

According to the Georgia Forestry Commission, Georgia has seen about 1,000 more fires this year compared to the same time last year. Those fires have burned an additional 10,000 acres, with crews responding to an average of 40 wildfires each day.

“We’re on an uptick,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Protection Chief Thomas Barrett in an interview with GPB News. “We’ve been increasing the number of fires and the acreage burned for the last couple of years.”

Barrett said several large fires in recent weeks have stretched resources, including the Sargent Fire near Fargo, Florida, which moved into Georgia and burned about 2,500 acres on its first day.

Already this year, Georgia has experienced 2,280 wildfires, burning more than 20,533 acres statewide. That’s 52.9% more fires and 112% more acres burned compared to the state’s five-year average, according to the Georgia Forestry Commission.

Drought driving fire risk

Dry conditions are a major factor behind the increase.

Parts of South Georgia are under extreme or exceptional drought, while other areas remain unusually dry. Limited rainfall and dry vegetation make it easier for fires to start and spread quickly.

Barrett said the state may need a significant rain event to ease conditions.

“We need one of those ‘rains with a name,'” he said, referring to a tropical system that could bring widespread rainfall later this summer.

Most fires caused by people

With much of Georgia still facing drought conditions and little rain in sight, the risk of wildfire remains high. Most of these fires are preventable, with about 95% of them caused by people. Wildfires are often sparked by everyday activities like dragging trailer chains, parking hot vehicles in dry grass, or leaving embers unattended.

Spring yard cleanup is a common trigger, as people burn piles of leaves and limbs. State fire officials urge residents to use caution when burning outdoors. Burn only in open areas, keep water or tools nearby to control flames, and never leave a fire unattended.

“The most important thing you can do is stay with it,” Barrett said. “Make sure it’s completely out before you leave.”