South Georgia Wildfires Surge as Drought Worsens Across Big Bend

THOMAS COUNTY, GEORGIA — Firefighters in South Georgia and Florida’s Big Bend are battling a surge in wildfires as an intense, weeks-long drought continues to dry out vegetation and create extremely dangerous burning conditions.

“We’re Responding to Fires Every Day”

Thomas County Fire Chief Chris Jones said his department is responding to two to four fires a day — sometimes even returning to the same locations within hours.

“It’s individuals who have had a yard debris pile that maybe they’ve burned in the same area for many years with no issues whatsoever,” Jones explained. “Now we’re responding to a call for those individuals, and their fire has maybe moved over to their neighbor’s property.”

Grass Fires Spreading Faster

On Friday, a small grass fire along I-10 in Jefferson County, Florida grew rapidly before being contained. Though minor, officials said even small fires can spread fast under current conditions, fueled by dry soil and high temperatures.

“The conditions are extremely dangerous now,” Jones warned. “We need residents to be cautious and call the fire department if they see a brush or prescribed fire that looks out of control.”

Drought Index Reaches Critical Levels

According to the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC), the region’s drought index — which measures ground moisture from 0 (wet) to 800 (dry) — is currently hovering between 600 and 725, signaling severe drought stress in upper soil layers.

Stephen Spradley, GFC’s training development officer, said many South Georgia counties haven’t seen meaningful rainfall in over a month.

“There’s a lot of counties that have not received rain in the last month,” Spradley said. “What little bit we did get last weekend around Valdosta and Brooks County — the ground really soaked it up because it was so dry beforehand.”

He added, “That’s extremely problematic for us with wildfires. We’re pretty bad off.”

Residents Urged to Stop Debris Burning

Officials are pleading with residents to avoid outdoor burning until weather conditions improve. The GFC recommends calling local authorities before lighting any fire to ensure it complies with burn bans or safety advisories.

“Even a small spark can turn into a fast-moving wildfire,” Spradley said. “We’re fighting these fires daily, but we need residents to help keep things under control.”

Residents are also encouraged to:

• Avoid debris or yard burning during windy days.
• Keep firebreaks cleared around properties.
• Never leave an active fire unattended.
• Have water and tools nearby when burning.

Rain Possible, But Not Enough

Forecasters expect spotty rain early next week, but experts warn that even if showers develop, the moisture may not last long.

Spradley said, “Even when rain arrives, dry soil conditions and lightning can still spark new fires. Until we see consistent rainfall, the wildfire risk will remain high.”

Regional Fire Crews on High Alert

With dozens of small fires reported in recent days across Thomas, Brooks, Lowndes, and Jefferson counties, departments throughout South Georgia and North Florida are on heightened alert.

Local agencies are coordinating with the Georgia Forestry Commission and Florida Forest Service to share resources and track hot spots in rural areas where brush fires can burn unnoticed for hours.

“This is one of the most active early fall fire seasons we’ve seen in years,” a fire official said. “We’re hoping for rain soon, but we’re preparing as if it won’t come.”

Do you believe Georgia and Florida should issue statewide burn bans until drought conditions improve? Share your opinion and join the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.