Tallahassee, Florida – Wildfire danger will spike across parts of Florida, Georgia, and Alabama on Saturday as strong winds and extremely dry air create conditions where fires could spread rapidly.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. EDT Saturday through 8 p.m. EDT Saturday for the eastern Florida Panhandle, inland Big Bend, southwest Georgia, and portions of southeast Alabama. Fire officials warn that even a small spark could ignite fast-moving grass or brush fires.
According to the National Weather Service in Tallahassee, northeast winds will increase to 15 to 20 mph with gusts reaching 25 to 30 mph while humidity drops as low as 18 percent during the afternoon. These ingredients create an environment where flames can grow quickly and become difficult to control.
The warning includes communities across Leon, Jackson, Washington, and Walton counties in Florida, along with major southwest Georgia counties including Dougherty, Lee, Thomas, Tift, Colquitt, and Lowndes. Portions of Coffee, Dale, Houston, and Geneva counties in southeast Alabama are also included.
Emergency officials urge residents to avoid any outdoor burning, including debris piles or yard waste. Sparks from grills, trailers dragging chains, or discarded cigarettes could also start fires under these conditions.
Drivers traveling along Interstate 10, U.S. 231, and U.S. 84 should stay alert for smoke if fires ignite near roadways.
Conditions are expected to improve after sunset Saturday as winds weaken and humidity gradually recovers, but officials warn that additional fire weather alerts could follow if dry conditions persist into early next week.
