The Georgia Forestry Commission has advised a high fire danger warning to the people of Northwest Georgia and is asking the community to refrain from burning or starting fires temporarily.

“There’s been no measurable rain for over a month, and conditions are critically dry,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Director Tim Lowrimore. “Seasonal leaf fall, along with sustained gusty winds, are contributing to high fire risk conditions. We’re recommending any planned outdoor burning be postponed for now.”

According to the GFC, many weather factors can dictate the risk, intensity and spread of wildfires. They include wind, relative humidity, and fuel moisture. Temperature and drought levels also play a role, and all of these conditions can also impact efforts to fight and contain wildfires. Changing conditions and wind make it easier for embers to fly and fires to spread.

In Chattooga County, Commissioner Blake Elsberry has issued a burn ban as has the City of Summerville.  No outdoor burning, including recreational camp fires, is allowed for the next thirty days.  Walker County Commissioners have enacted a burn ban as well.