Story perspectives

Georgia Declares Emergency as Wildfires Ravage 20,000 Acres

4/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency—the first wildfire emergency since 2007—after the Georgia Forestry Commission issued its first mandatory burn ban covering 91 counties.
Wildfires across southeast Georgia and northeast Florida have destroyed 50 homes, burned 20,000 acres, and left evacuation orders in place.
Smoke from the blazes has driven air quality in Atlanta, Savannah and Macon to unhealthy levels, prompting health advisories and school closures.

1 of 1

Story summary

Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency—the first wildfire emergency since 2007—after the Georgia Forestry Commission issued its first mandatory burn ban covering 91 counties.
Wildfires across southeast Georgia and northeast Florida have destroyed 50 homes, burned 20,000 acres, and left evacuation orders in place.
Smoke from the blazes has driven air quality in Atlanta, Savannah and Macon to unhealthy levels, prompting health advisories and school closures.