US & Canada Science

Wildfires Raging Across Georgia and Florida

Wildfires Raging Across Georgia and Florida

The Georgia Forestry Commission has issued the first mandatory burn ban in the state's history as the emergency intensifies across 91 counties.

Dozens of homes have already been destroyed, and smoke from the blazes has blanketed cities hundreds of miles away, prompting health alerts for toxic air quality.

Firefighters are working around the clock to establish containment lines, but shifting winds remain a major concern for emergency responders.

The disaster has been exacerbated by debris left behind by Hurricane Helene, providing ample fuel for the fast-moving fires.

Georgia
Country in the Caucasus region of Europe and Asia
Florida
City in Florida Department, Uruguay
Hurricane Helene
Category 3 Atlantic hurricane in 2006