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Balloon Spark Sparks Georgia Wildfires, 120 Homes Lost

4/28/2026

32 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A balloon and a stray welding spark ignited Georgia’s wildfires, setting a record for homes lost.
After Highway 82 and Pineland Road Fires in Brantley and Clinch counties burned 53,000 acres, destroyed 120 homes and were 6-10% contained, Governor Brian Kemp declared an emergency for 91 counties and a burning ban.
A curfew and shelters run by American Red Cross and churches protect 4,000 residents as rain slows the blazes.

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Story summary

A balloon and a stray welding spark ignited Georgia’s wildfires, setting a record for homes lost.
After Highway 82 and Pineland Road Fires in Brantley and Clinch counties burned 53,000 acres, destroyed 120 homes and were 6-10% contained, Governor Brian Kemp declared an emergency for 91 counties and a burning ban.
A curfew and shelters run by American Red Cross and churches protect 4,000 residents as rain slows the blazes.