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Gov. Kemp Declares State of Emergency in Response to South Georgia Wildfires

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ATLANTA ~ Governor Brian P. Kemp has declared a State of Emergency for 91 counties in Georgia in response to the ongoing wildfires in South Georgia. The declaration, which can be found here, will remain in effect for 30 days unless renewed.

The governor has also directed the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) and other relevant state agencies to mobilize all necessary resources to assist with active response efforts in the southern region of the state. This decision comes as much of Georgia is experiencing extreme drought conditions, causing the wildfires to surpass the state's 5-year average and continue to spread.

In a statement, Governor Kemp expressed his concern for those affected by the fires and his commitment to working closely with state and federal officials to combat them. He also urged residents to follow directives from local authorities and emergency management departments.

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The State of Emergency is in addition to a Burn Ban Order issued earlier today by State Forester Johnny Sabo for the same 91 counties. The ban, which will remain in effect for 30 days unless extended, prohibits prescribed burns as well as burning yard debris and agricultural material in the affected area.

To aid in response and recovery efforts, the Georgia Department of Defense has been authorized to mobilize National Guard troops and resources. Air assets and Guardsmen are being activated and deployed to assist with firefighting efforts.

In addition, FEMA has approved Fire Management Assistance Grant declarations for two specific fires - the Pineland Road Fire burning in Clinch and Echols Counties, and the Highway 82 Wildfire burning in Brantley County. A federal Incident Management Team (IMT) is also being called up to assist with response.

All relevant state agencies are working together to provide support during this crisis. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is contributing three helicopters with fire suppression capabilities, a D6 Dozer for debris removal, two Type 2 Water Engines with four team members each, and ten Game Wardens to assist with evacuations, GFC investigations, and clearing burned structures and debris. The Georgia State Patrol (GSP) is also providing three helicopters to support wildfire response efforts. The Georgia Department of Agriculture is assisting with the relocation of livestock in impacted areas.

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To ensure the safety of residents, the State of Emergency order also prohibits price gouging. The GFC will continue to provide updates on their website and social media accounts, and residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow instructions from local authorities.

For current wildfire information and emergency updates, residents can visit gatrees.org/current-wildfire-information-and-resources/. A live-time map of active fires and response efforts can be found here. As the situation continues to develop, Governor Kemp and his team are working tirelessly to protect the affected communities and provide assistance where needed.

Filed Under: Government, State

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