Wildfires sweeping across the southeastern United States have caused unprecedented destruction in Georgia, where more than 120 homes and buildings have been destroyed in what officials describe as a record-setting disaster.

Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency across 91 counties as firefighters battle multiple blazes fueled by extreme drought conditions. The two largest fires—known as the Highway 82 and Pineland Road fires—have burned through more than 39,000 acres, leaving widespread devastation in their path, News.Az reports, citing Reuters.

While no civilian deaths have been reported in Georgia, a volunteer firefighter died in neighboring Florida after suffering a medical emergency while responding to a separate blaze, highlighting the growing risks faced by emergency crews.

The fires are part of a broader wave of wildfires affecting the Southeast, including South Carolina and Alabama, as unusually dry conditions combine with heavy vegetation left behind after Hurricane Helene. Officials say the region now has a dense “fuel bed” of dry timber and brush, allowing fires to spread rapidly.

Authorities warn that conditions are so severe that even a small spark can ignite a large-scale wildfire. Investigators say one of the major fires started when a party balloon struck a power line, while another was caused by a spark from a welding tool—both minor incidents that quickly escalated into major disasters.

Fire crews, supported by aircraft, are working to contain the flames, but progress remains limited, with only a small portion of the fires under control. Nearly 1,000 additional homes are still at risk as strong winds and dry weather continue to hamper efforts.

In response, officials have imposed a 30-day ban on outdoor burning across affected areas—the first measure of its kind in the state’s history—aimed at preventing further outbreaks.

With little rain in the forecast and extreme conditions expected to persist, authorities warn the situation could worsen, underscoring how climate extremes are reshaping wildfire risks far beyond the western United States.

News.Az 

By Aysel Mammadzada