With forecasters predicting an early spring in southeast Georgia, forestry officials are gearing up for what could be an early start to a fire season they fear could be a repeat of 2011.

"Unfortunately, wildfire conditions have not improved in southeast Georgia and north Florida, and analysts expect another active fire season this year," said Frank Sorrells of the Georgia Forestry Commission. "Our goal is to empower individuals in these counties with the knowledge they need to take proactive actions now to help protect themselves and their communities this wildfire season."

Three large fires torched nearly 340,000 acres in and near the Okefenokee Swamp last year. The largest, the Honey Prairie Fire, burned about 310,000 acres after lightning started it in late April.

Jason Gillis, interim district manager of Georgia Forestry's Satilla District office, says forecasters are predicting average rainfall for February. But he said that won't be enough to cut into the drought that has left the woods and swamps dry.

Gillis said that conditions mean wildfires could be popping up in a few weeks.