What is the impact of the drought on Florida's fire season?

Florida is experiencing one of its worst fire seasons in decades, with over 130 wildfires burning primarily in the northern half of the state, fueled by an 18-month drought.

How is the wildfire smoke affecting the Southeast?

Smoke from the fires is impacting air quality in major cities across the Southeast, including Atlanta, Savannah, and Jacksonville, and has even spread into South Carolina.

Home / Environment / Southeast Drought Fuels Unprecedented Fires

Southeast Drought Fuels Unprecedented Fires

26 Apr

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Summary

Record homes destroyed by a single wildfire in Georgia's history.
A volunteer firefighter died in a brush fire in North Florida.
Over 130 wildfires have burned across Florida's northern half.

Southeast Drought Fuels Unprecedented Fires

Severe drought conditions gripping the Southeast have escalated wildfire activity, impacting air quality and destroying homes. In Georgia, the Highway 82 Fire in Brantley County has set a state record, with at least 87 homes destroyed and 700 more threatened. Officials suspect this fire was ignited by a foil party balloon contacting power lines.

A second major fire in Clinch County, suspected to have started from welding sparks, is also active. Governor Kemp declared a state of emergency for numerous counties and issued Georgia's first-ever 30-day burn ban for the southern part of the state.