Two Massive Wildfires Burn Over 52,000 Acres in Southeast Georgia
Two massive wildfires continue to burn across southeast Georgia, forcing thousands to evacuate and destroying more than 120 homes as firefighters battle extreme drought conditions and wind-driven flames.
The Highway 82 Fire in Brantley County has grown to 20,933 acres and is only 7% contained. The Pineland Road Fire burning in Clinch and Echols counties has expanded to 32,003 acres with 10% containment. Together, the two blazes have consumed over 52,000 acres of forest and residential areas.
Brantley County Commission Chairman Joey Cason said the situation remains dynamic with shifting conditions. Mandatory evacuations are in effect for multiple road corridors including Highway 110 West from Highway 82 to Highway 32, Highway 32 from Highway 301 to Post Road, and Browntown Road from Highway 82 to the Wayne County line.
In Echols County, 140 civilians have been evacuated as the Pineland Road Fire threatens 187 single residences and 123 minor structures. The fire has already destroyed one single residence and 35 minor structures, with widespread damage to industrial timber production reported.
Georgia Forestry Commission PIO Don Thomas said extreme drought conditions with a Keetch-Byram Drought Index approaching 700 are creating high fire resistance to control. Low humidity in the mid-30% range combined with wind-driven runs and rapid fire movement are increasing risks to responders.
Governor Brian Kemp surveyed the wildfire response Friday with the Georgia National Guard and other state leaders at the command center at the Waycross-Ware County Airport. A state of emergency remains in effect for south Georgia counties.
Brantley County Schools will remain closed Monday and Tuesday, April 27-28, as officials continue to monitor ongoing fire conditions. The American Red Cross has opened shelters including an overnight facility at Selden Park in Glynn County for displaced residents.
Firefighters are working on both the east and west flanks of the Highway 82 Fire to tie in new containment lines and complete structure assessments. The Pineland Road Fire has 173 personnel deployed with 48 tractor plows and 13 Type 6 engines. Estimated incident costs have reached $3 million.
Smoke impacts are likely in surrounding areas including Valdosta, Homerville, and Fargo. The Georgia Department of Transportation and Georgia State Patrol are monitoring smoke and fog conditions along roadways to maintain public safety.
Officials urge residents to leave immediately if they receive an evacuation notice and to follow all instructions from local emergency management and law enforcement.
How to Help: Georgia Wildfire Relief Resources
Brantley County Fire Relief Fund
Southeastern Bank is collecting monetary donations at all locations to assist local families and individuals affected by the wildfire in Brantley County. 100% of proceeds go to established local nonprofits.
How to give: Visit any Southeastern Bank location or mail checks payable to: Southeastern Bank Fire Relief Fund
Locations: Brunswick, Callahan, Darien, Eulonia, Folkston, Hilliard, Kingsland, Nahunta, Richmond Hill, St. Simons Island
Georgia Forestry Foundation Wildfire Recovery Fund
The Georgia Forestry Foundation has launched the Forest Wildfire Recovery Fund to provide direct, practical support to communities, forest landowners, and rural families impacted by wildfire.
How to give: Online donations at gffgrow.org/wildfire-recovery
Initial funding: $10,000 seed investment from the Foundation
Use of funds: Direct recovery grants, cleanup assistance, reforestation support, and other immediate needs
American Red Cross
The Red Cross has opened multiple shelters across South Georgia including locations in Jesup, Lake Park, and Selden Park (Glynn County) to aid wildfire evacuees.
How to give: Online at redcross.org/donate or call 1-800-RED-CROSS
Note: Specify "Georgia Wildfire Relief" when donating if possible
Georgia Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD)
State officials recommend monetary donations through GA VOAD to ensure help gets where it's needed most. Donors can specify support for the American Red Cross or Salvation Army and designate which county to support.
How to give: Visit gavoad.org and select your preferred organization and county designation
Brantley County Family Connection
Local organizations in Brantley County are collecting essential items for families affected by the fires through the Brantley County Family Connection network in Nahunta.
How to help: Contact Brantley County Family Connection in Nahunta for current needs lists and donation drop-off locations
Note: Check with local officials for most current needs as situations evolve
Learn More About Local Support
Information current as of April 26, 2026 | Always verify with official sources before donating
