Wildfire prompts evacuations in Charlton Co. north of Folkston
FOLKSTON, Ga. – GFC Update: The Charlton County wildfire is currently mapped at approximately 697 acres and 80% contained.
A containment line is established around the perimeter, and crews are actively working to strengthen and improve those lines. We expect the containment percentage to increase tomorrow as that work continues.
Up to 75 homes and 150 outbuildings were within or near the fire footprint. Minor damage has been confirmed to two homes, with eight minor structures destroyed. A salvage yard was also impacted. Damage assessments are ongoing.
Evacuations and road closures were lifted late yesterday evening by Charlton EMA.
The cause of the fire has been determined to be a downed power line. A dead tree fell onto the line, creating a spark that ignited surrounding fuels.
GFC currently has:
• 7 Tractor Plows
• 5 Type 6 Engines
• 7 Overhead personnel
• 1 Air Attack
• 1 Type 2 Helicopter
We appreciate the continued coordination and community cooperation – this has been a true team effort and we are thankful for each and every partner who has contributed to this effort.
GFC responded at approximately 3:00 p.m. on Sunday afternoon to the Charlton Hwy. 301 Fire in Charlton County. Upon arrival, the fire was estimated at 100 acres. As of 7:30 p.m., it is estimated at 550 acres and approximately 70% contained.
The fire stretches nearly 2 miles from Hwy 301 to Hwy 252 just north of Folkston. As many as 75 homes and approximately 150 outbuildings are within or near the fire footprint. There is confirmed minor damage to one structure, and assessments are ongoing.
Evacuations remain in progress under the coordination of Charlton County EMA.
Today, GFC responded with:
• 13 tractor plows
• 5 overhead personnel
• 1 air attack
• 1 Type 2 helicopter
Local partners providing structure protection include Brantley, Charlton, Camden, Glynn, Ware, and Jacksonville and Nassau (FL) fire departments (and many other awesome partners!). Georgia Department of Public Safety and Georgia Department of Natural Resources – Georgia DNR are assisting with road closures and evacuations.
Additional resources will arrive in the morning, including six Type 6 engines, 4 dozers, and 8 tractor plows. Air attack and the helicopter will return at first light. GFC personnel will remain on scene tonight.
Please continue to avoid the area and follow guidance from local officials.
Photo courtesy of Charlton County Herald
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