April 2026 Wildfires

For current wildfire information and emergency updates, visit the Georgia Forestry Commission website.

A live-time map of the active fires and response is also available to check local fire conditions.

GFC will provide ongoing updates via its website and social media accounts. Residents are encouraged to heed directives and information from their local authorities and Emergency Management Agencies.

Wildfire Safety

1. Pay attention to emergency alerts and notifications for information and instructions.
2. Evacuate immediately if authorities tell you to do so. 
   1. Check with local authorities for the latest information about public shelters or check open locations on the FEMA app. You can also download the free Red Cross Emergency app for a list of open Red Cross shelters in your area.
   2. Consider making plans with friends or family to shelter with them where you may be safer and more comfortable.
3. If trapped, call 9-1-1 and give your location, but be aware that emergency response could be delayed or impossible. Turn on lights to help rescuers find you.
4. Use an N95 mask to protect yourself from smoke inhalation or limit your exposure to smoke by doing the following:
   1. Choose a room to close off from outside air and set up a portable air cleaner or filter to keep the air in this room clean even when it’s smoky in the rest of the building and outdoors.
   2. Use high efficiency filters in your central air conditioning system to capture fine particles from smoke. If your system has fresh air intake, set the system to “recirculate” mode and close the outdoor intake damper.
   3. If you are not ordered to evacuate but smoky conditions exist, stay inside in a safe location or go to a community building where smoke levels are lower.
5. If you are sick and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for further care instructions and shelter in place, if possible.

State of Emergency

Governor Kemp declared a State of Emergency for 91 Georgia counties in response to the ongoing wildfires in South Georgia today. The governor 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. 

Burn Ban

The Georgia Forestry Commission has issued a Burn Ban Order that covers 91 counties. Current wildfire locations are showed on this map as well. Please refrain from burning outdoors. Follow all local guidance and restrictions and be extremely cautious with anything that could create a spark.

Donations

The Brantley County Sheriff's Office has reached maximum capacity for donations to first responders. Those still wishing to make donations should hold them for future needs. 

Those wishing to support the families affected should donate money through the Georgia VOAD. When donating, select either the American Red Cross or Salvation Army and note that the contribution is for Brantley County.

The following groups are also accepting donations:

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6602, Hinesville

• Collecting donations for displaced families and first responders affected by the Brantley County wildfires.
• Donations will be accepted through Sunday at 5 p.m.
• Requested items include water, sports drinks, food, hygiene products, clothing, diapers, wipes and other emergency supplies.
• Monetary donations also are being accepted. 
• For more information, call 912-876-6602.

Southeast Georgia High School Wresting

• Area wrestling coaches are coordinating donations to support the Brantley County wrestling program, school district and community
• A drop-off site will be open Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon at James E. Bacon Elementary School in Jesup
• Donations will be consolidated and sent to Brantley County for distribution
• Brantley County wrestling teams will help unload supplies and get them where they are needed most