Over a week after igniting in the Warwoman Wildlife Management Area, firefighters have continued to gain ground in their battle against the Big Ridge Fire burning in Rabun County, according to the U.S. Forestry Service.
The wildfire is 39% contained as of April 2.
Officials said fire crews battling the blaze are expected to see more rainfall Wednesday, April 2, with up to a quarter inch forecasted.
Officials also report significant progress on containment lines Tuesday, April 1. According to officials, an increase in the reported fire size is due to improved mapping and not fire growth.
Specialists from the Georgia Forestry Commission continue to assess and implement structure protection measures in communities near Warwoman Creek. Fire activity remains minimal, with only smoldering expected throughout the day.
Crews will focus on reinforcing containment lines from Wilson Knob to Forest Service Road 155 and on the east side of the fire between Rabun Bald and Sarah’s Creek. Firefighters are also conducting mop-up operations to fully extinguish lingering hot spots.
The U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations division is seeking information regarding the cause of the fire. Anyone who was in the area on March 22 and noticed suspicious activity is encouraged to call the Georgia Forestry Commission Arson Hotline at 1-800-428-7337.
Cooler temperatures and higher humidity are expected Wednesday, April 2, with a high of 61°F, 80% minimum humidity, and winds from the south-southeast at 10 mph, with gusts up to 22 mph. A warming and drying trend will begin tomorrow, with the next chance of rain arriving Sunday.
No evacuations have been ordered, but a closure remains in place for the area surrounding the fire.
