First responders urge caution as critical fire weather conditions expected across Middle Georgia

The National Weather Service has issued a Fire Danger Statement for several counties, including Bibb, Peach, Houston, Jones, Twiggs and Baldwin.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Fire Danger Statement for several Middle Georgia counties, including Bibb, Peach, Houston, Jones, Twiggs and Baldwin through at least Friday. The alert is due to expected warm temperatures, mixed with low humidity and strong wind gusts.

“We have had some rain, but it’s not necessarily been a whole lot,” said Ned Dixon, Deputy Chief of Operations for the Warner Robins Police Department. “With that relative humidity being down, things tend to burn a lot easier and faster.”

Dixon says the threat of wildfires is the greatest for those in grassy and agricultural areas. While the NWS alert was prompted due to expected wind gusts of up to 15 miles per hour, Dixon says speeds of just five to six miles per hour can cause danger.

Dixon says no burn permits will be issued in Warner Robins while the alert is in effect, and the Community Safety Advisory advises residents not to burn anything outdoors. Dixon wants residents to be aware of all other options available.

“Of course, hauling yard debris off to the landfill is always an option if you have those capabilities,” Dixon said.

David Brown, Chief Ranger for the Georgia Forestry Commission’s Macon office, says Middle Georgians should take the alert seriously as his office has seen more than 1,000 fires over the past month.

“About three miles from our headquarters here, we had one a couple of weeks ago; it was about right at 600 acres,” Brown said. “And we think it probably burned for a day before we found out about it.” 

Brown says those who do choose to burn outside should ensure humidity levels are above 25% and practice other preventative measures to reduce the risk of rapid spreading.

“You can do that by staying 25 feet away from the woods, 50 feet away from a structure,” Brown said. “Being available, being on scene and not leaving your fire.”

While the NWS alert remains in effect and after, Brown says staying prepared can be lifesaving, protect your neighborhood and community.

“Be cautious, be careful, have that stuff available before you burn,” Brown said. “Before you ever light it you need to have things in place and have a plan in place and know who to call in case it gets out.”