South Georgia wildfires raise fire risk and air quality concerns in Middle Georgia

WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- Wildfires burning in South Georgia are putting Middle Georgia on alert, as dry conditions increase the risk of fires and smoke drifts into the area.

Officials say an ongoing drought is making conditions especially dangerous across Central Georgia.

Deputy Chief of Operations Newell Dixon with the Warner Robins Fire Department says the combination of low humidity, lack of rain, and breezy conditions is creating an elevated fire risk.

“The risk in Central Georgia right now is really elevated simply because of the exceptional drought that we’re going through. The lack of rain, the low humidity, and breezy conditions all make it real susceptible for wildfires and things of that nature, brush fires,” Dixon said.

While large scale wildfires are less common in more developed areas like Warner Robins, Dixon says smaller brush fires can start quickly and spread fast.

He warns that everyday actions, like tossing a cigarette or parking a hot car on dry grass, could easily ignite a fire under current conditions.

“With the grass being as dry as it is, lack of rain, a fire can start really quick in that sense. And with the breezes that we’ve had over the last several days, couple weeks, it helps it to spread that much quicker,” Dixon said.

In addition to fire concerns, smoke from South Georgia wildfires is drifting into parts of Middle Georgia, raising concerns about air quality.

Michael Hokanson with the North Central Health District says even if the smoke is not as thick locally, it can still have serious health impacts.

“Diminished air quality from wildfire smoke can impact anyone. Breathing issues can happen immediately and things can range from coughing, wheezing to more severe things like asthma attacks, chest pain,” Hokanson said.

Health officials say those most at risk include people with asthma, heart or lung conditions, children, the elderly, and pregnant women.

They recommend monitoring air quality conditions and limiting time outdoors if smoke becomes more noticeable.