Atlanta, Georgia — Dry air and low humidity are elevating wildfire concerns across north and central Georgia today, prompting a Fire Danger Statement.
According to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, relative humidity levels are expected to drop to between 20 and 25 percent this afternoon and early evening. Combined with dry vegetation and light southwest winds of 3 to 7 mph, conditions may allow fires to start easily and spread more quickly than usual.
The Fire Danger Statement covers a large portion of north and central Georgia, including the Atlanta metro area and surrounding communities. Areas near major travel corridors such as Interstate 75, Interstate 85, Interstate 20, and U.S. Highway 27 are included in the advisory area, where roadside grasses and wooded buffers remain dry.
Officials strongly discourage outdoor burning, noting that even small ignition sources — including debris burns, campfires, or discarded cigarettes — can lead to rapid fire growth under these conditions. While winds are not expected to be strong, forecasters emphasize that low humidity is the primary driver of today’s elevated fire risk.
The highest concern window runs from midday through early evening, when humidity levels are lowest. Conditions are expected to gradually improve after sunset as humidity recovers.
The statement follows a continued stretch of dry weather, which has reduced fuel moisture across the region. No rainfall is expected today to mitigate the risk.
The alert is particularly relevant for commuters, outdoor workers, and residents traveling along highways and rural routes, where vehicle heat or sparks can ignite dry grass near road shoulders.
Residents are urged to use caution with any activity involving open flames, avoid outdoor burning, and promptly report smoke or fires to local authorities.
