NAHUNTA, GA — Fire crews in Georgia and Florida made some progress against large wildfires as rain moved through parts of the South, but dangerous fire weather remains in place. The blazes are burning during a historic drought that has left much of both states extremely dry.
In south Georgia, firefighters are still working two major fires that together have burned more than 55,000 acres. In north Florida, crews continue to monitor several fires, including one that killed a volunteer firefighter last week.
Georgia Fire Fight
Rain gave firefighters in Brantley County a short break and helped push the Highway 82 Fire to 32% containment. Some evacuation orders east of the fire zone were lifted, although other orders remain in effect.
The Georgia National Guard has been assisting local crews. The Pineland Road Fire, burning about 45 miles east of Valdosta, had scorched more than 32,500 acres and was 23% contained as of Tuesday.
Damage And Response
The fires have destroyed nearly 90 homes across southern Georgia, according to officials. Gov. Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency in 91 counties and put a 30-day mandatory burn ban in place, the first of its kind in state history…