FOLKSTON, Ga. – A wildfire that broke out on Sunday in Charlton County and spread an estimated 600 acres is 100% contained in Southeast Georgia, according to the Georgia Forest Commission.
The wildfire, believed to have been sparked by a downed powerline, stretched nearly 2 miles from U.S. 301 to County Road 252.
Residents were ordered to evacuate from their homes out of an abundance of caution, but returned by 8:45 p.m.
On Monday, the Charlton County Emergency Management Agency issued an update saying that light operations were still underway to manage any hotspots with the potential to reignite and monitor conditions.
Helicopters were spotted picking up 500 gallons of water from Forest Lake to take to hotspots.
“These are the heroes right here,” Luke Gowen, county commissioner, said. “I’ve been fortunate enough to help other people. But nothing right here in my backyard, literally. We’re Charlton strong. Anytime something happens, tragedy strikes, emergency strikes, our citizens, our first responders are here immediately.”
Multiple agencies from surrounding counties helped to contain the massive fire.
As weather conditions remain dry, officials urged residents in the area to remain vigilant and to call 911 if they see anything of concern.
The Florida Forest Service also issued a temporary burn ban for Nassau, Duval, Clay, St. Johns and Flagler counties.