Georgia and Florida Wildfires Destroy Homes and Force Evacuations Amid Severe Drought
Wildfires have intensified across southeastern Georgia and northeastern Florida, leading to the destruction of 50 homes and forcing evacuations and school closures in several communities. The Georgia Forestry Commission has issued its first-ever mandatory burn ban across 91 counties due to worsening drought conditions and increased wildfire activity. Smoke from the fires has affected air quality in cities such as Atlanta and Savannah, Georgia, and Jacksonville, Florida. The fires have been exacerbated by a prolonged drought, low humidity, and strong winds. Georgia's two largest wildfires have burned over 31 square miles, with additional smaller fires reported. The drought affecting the contiguous U.S. is at record levels for this time of year, with over 61% of the lower 48 states experiencing moderate to exceptional drought conditions. 
