Florida Panhandle Fire Danger: 20 Days Without Rain Raises Wildfire Threat
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — After nearly three straight weeks without measurable rainfall, the Florida Panhandle and parts of southern Georgia are facing heightened wildfire risks heading into the weekend.
Prolonged Dry Spell Fuels Concern
Cities including Tallahassee, Marianna, and Valdosta have not seen significant rain since late August. In Albany, Georgia, only 0.02 inches of rain have been recorded this month, while Tallahassee and surrounding areas have received none. The lack of precipitation, combined with temperatures in the mid-90s and falling humidity levels, is creating increasingly dangerous fire weather conditions.
Limited Rain Chances Ahead
The National Weather Service in Tallahassee noted that isolated showers could occur in parts of the Alabama Wiregrass and southern Georgia, but the odds remain low at under 25%. For most of the Florida Panhandle, including Panama City and Cross City, rain chances remain below 15% through Monday.
Officials say the earliest meaningful rain may not come until Tuesday or Wednesday, when chances rise slightly to 25% or less.
Fire Departments Already Responding
Local fire departments report a noticeable increase in brush fires across the region. Residents are being urged to:
- Avoid outdoor burning
- Properly secure ignition sources
- Closely monitor advisories through local authorities
Without rain, officials warn, even small sparks could quickly ignite into larger blazes.
Tallahassee Five-Day Outlook
- Thursday: High 92°F, <15% rain chance
- Friday: High 93°F, 5% rain chance
- Saturday: High 91°F, 5% rain chance
- Sunday: High 90°F, 15% rain chance
- Monday: High 91°F, 20% rain chance
With the region’s 20-day dry streak, fire danger will remain elevated until measurable rainfall arrives.
Have you noticed fire conditions worsening in your area of the Panhandle or southern Georgia? Share your experiences in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
