Kemp tours South Georgia wildfires as 100 homes destroyed
Kemp tours devastating South Georgia wildfires
Governor Brian Kemp toured impacted areas of Brantley County today as two massive wildfires destroyed nearly 100 structures and scorched 7,500 acres in South Georgia.
ATLANTA - Gov. Brian Kemp met with first responders Friday to tour the damage caused by two massive wildfires that have destroyed dozens of homes in South Georgia.
Gov. Kemp updates on destructive wildfires
Governor Kemp and other Georgia leaders bring updates from Brantley County on what the governor is calling the most destructive fire in the state's history.
Massive fires destroy homes
What we know:
Crews in South Georgia are fighting two large wildfires in Brantley and Clinch counties that have burned through 38,000 total acres. In Brantley County, a fire has charred at least 7,500 acres and is only 15% contained, according to officials. The fires have destroyed nearly 100 homes and structures, including school buses and vehicles, marking the most significant loss of homes to wildfire in Georgia history.
The governor noted that the Brantley County fire likely started after a balloon hit power lines. The Clinch County fire apparently began when a spark from someone welding a gate ignited the dry brush. Extreme drought has turned the region into a "tinderbox," allowing flames to jump a mile at a time through treetops.
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What we don't know:
While the Brantley County fire is reported at 15% containment, officials have not yet confirmed the specific containment percentage for the larger blaze burning in Clinch County.
Historic fire destruction
By the numbers:
- 38,000: Total acres burned across South Georgia.
- 85: Number of homes confirmed gone in the current count.
- 200: Number of firefighters currently working the fire lines.
- 1: Mile distance that embers are traveling through the air to start new fires.
State leaders urge caution
What they're saying:
"When you have fire that is burning to the top of trees... it doesn’t matter how many fire breaks you got," Governor Brian Kemp said after touring the fire line. He added that these are the "most dangerous" fires currently burning anywhere in America.
Gov. Kemp to tour South Georgia wildfire damage
Gov. Brian Kemp is traveling to South Georgia on Friday to see the damage done by two large wildfires in the area and to meet with crews who are fighting the fires.
What you can do:
Officials are telling residents not to burn anything right now. Because of the extreme drought, even a small spark could have major repercussions and start a new blaze.