After two days of rain and ongoing efforts by firefighters, containment of the Big Ridge Fire in Rabun County now is up to 20%, according to the U.S. Forestry Service.
Around 0.75 inches of rain that fell on the fire over a two-day period has brought needed relief to fire crews that have continued to battle the blaze – which started in the Warwoman Wildlife Management Area – since last week.
Structure protection specialists from the Georgia Forestry Commission continue to tour communities along Warwoman Creek to assess potential risks and provide support.
Fire activity and containment efforts
Officials say minimal fire spread is expected Tuesday, April 1, though open flames and creeping fire activity may persist in areas exposed to wind and sunlight. Firefighters have successfully contained the northern edge of the blaze, stretching from Rabun Bald to Wilson Gap near Sky Valley.
With improved conditions, crews will focus on constructing and reinforcing both direct and indirect fire control lines. Mop-up operations, which involve extinguishing residual heat sources such as smoldering stump holes and logs, will be the priority in areas where direct lines have been completed.
Investigation ongoing
The U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations unit is actively seeking information regarding the cause of the fire. Authorities urge anyone who was in the area on March 22 and observed suspicious activity to call the Georgia Forestry Commission Arson Hotline at 1-800-428-7337.
Weather conditions
The forecast for Tuesday, April 1 predicts warm and dry conditions, with humidity dropping into the 20s, temperatures reaching 70 degrees and light southeast winds at 2-4 mph. A shift is expected Wednesday, April 2, bringing cooler temperatures, higher humidity and a 20% chance of rain, which could further aid firefighting efforts.
Evacuations and closures
There are no evacuation orders at this time, though a closure order remains in effect for areas surrounding the Big Ridge Fire.
Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents to stay informed and exercise caution in fire-prone areas.
