Atlanta, GA – Much of central Georgia will face high fire danger conditions today, with forecasters urging residents to use extreme caution outdoors as humidity levels drop sharply through the afternoon and evening.
According to the National Weather Service, large portions of central and east-central Georgia will experience relative humidity levels of 25% or lower for at least four hours today. The alert covers counties from Hancock and Warren southward through Houston, Laurens, Crisp, Dodge, Telfair, Montgomery, and Toombs counties, affecting communities across the Macon, Columbus, and Augusta regions.
Forecasters report that southwest winds of 5 to 10 mph, combined with very dry vegetation and fuels, will create an environment where fires can start easily and spread faster than normal. According to meteorologists, these conditions are expected to peak through the afternoon and extend into the early evening hours.
Officials urge residents to check with local burn authorities before any outdoor burning. Even small flames—such as debris piles, fire pits, or equipment sparks—could ignite nearby brush under today’s dry setup. Those who do burn are advised to keep water sources nearby, avoid leaving fires unattended, and fully extinguish all embers.
The alert spans a wide area including Bibb, Peach, Houston, Laurens, Emanuel, Macon, Pulaski, Dooly, and Sumter counties, as well as communities stretching from Columbus to Macon to Dublin.
Fire officials say heightened awareness today can help prevent dangerous wildfire starts.
