Rome, Ga. – High fire danger will grip parts of northern and western Georgia Friday afternoon and evening as dry air and gusty winds increase the risk of outdoor blazes.
According to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, relative humidity will drop below 25% for four or more hours across areas including Dade, Walker, Floyd, and Bartow counties. Meanwhile, northeast Georgia counties like Union, Lumpkin, and Fannin could see winds gusting up to 30 mph, especially in higher elevations.
Low humidity and dry vegetation are a dangerous mix, prompting fire officials to warn residents to avoid outdoor burning. “Conditions are ripe for rapid fire spread,” the agency said in a morning statement. Winds will remain steady out of the south at 7 to 15 mph across much of the region.
Communities near Rome, Dalton, and Blue Ridge are especially vulnerable. Residents are urged to check local burn permit requirements and use extreme caution with any flame outdoors — including grills, fire pits, and equipment that can spark.
High fire danger conditions are expected to last through Friday evening. Another update or fire weather warning could be issued if winds increase or humidity falls further.
