As firefighters continue to battle the Big Ridge blaze in Rabun County, recent precipitation has helped crews better contain the fire’s spread, the U.S. Forestry Service announced Monday, March 31.
The Big Ridge Fire received 0.25 inches of rain as of 7:00 a.m. Monday, with an additional 0.5 to 1 inch expected. While the rainfall will not fully extinguish the fire, it is providing a crucial window for firefighters to establish containment lines where terrain allows.
Structure protection specialists from the Georgia Forestry Commission continue to work with communities near the fire along Warwoman Creek to assess risks and offer support where needed.
Fire activity and containment efforts
Due to the rainfall, little fire activity is expected Monday, March 31. On the northern edge of the fire near Sky Valley, flames have quieted as firefighters have successfully contained that section. Crews are now scouting direct containment lines east from Rabun Bald to Coldspring Gap.
On the fire’s southern perimeter, crews completed a containment line from Dan Gap to Walnut Fork yesterday and are focusing on strengthening and holding that line today. Efforts to construct secondary containment lines are also continuing.
Investigation ongoing
The U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations team is seeking information about the cause of the Big Ridge Fire. Authorities urge anyone who was in the area on March 22, 2025, and noticed suspicious activity to contact the Georgia Forestry Commission Arson Hotline at 1-800-428-7337.
Weather conditions
Today’s forecast calls for a high of 70°F with a minimum relative humidity of 50%. Winds from the south will blow at 5-10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. Tonight, Monday, March 31, winds will shift to the northwest, increasing to 10-20 mph with gusts reaching 35 mph. Conditions will become drier and warmer on Tuesday.
Evacuations and closures
No evacuations have been ordered at this time. However, a closure order remains in effect for areas surrounding the Big Ridge Fire.
