In my April 15th post, I told you about the dry conditions and fire warnings for the region. One of the driest areas is around the Okefenokee Swamp. The Okefenokee is the largest peat-based "blackwater" swamp in North America. The name comes from the Mikasuki word meaning "trembling earth" - referring to the spongy peat bogs.
For a week now, firefighters have been battling two wildfires. More than 1000 people have been forced from their homes and 14 houses have been destroyed. The fire has spread over 45 miles of tinder-dry pine and cypress forest. The fires are now on the edge of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge.
The larger of the two fires started Monday when a tree fell on a power line. But it has edged toward the wet prairie area and has slowed down and is 30% contained. Higher humidity and decreasing winds have also aided firefighters. But officials worried about stronger wind over the weekend spreading any flames. The cause of the smaller fire was still unknown.
For a week now, firefighters have been battling two wildfires. More than 1000 people have been forced from their homes and 14 houses have been destroyed. The fire has spread over 45 miles of tinder-dry pine and cypress forest. The fires are now on the edge of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge.
The larger of the two fires started Monday when a tree fell on a power line. But it has edged toward the wet prairie area and has slowed down and is 30% contained. Higher humidity and decreasing winds have also aided firefighters. But officials worried about stronger wind over the weekend spreading any flames. The cause of the smaller fire was still unknown.
Fire danger map showing drought conditions
The winds this week have been from the west and the northwest. Had they been from the south, we would be smoked over - like we experienced during the Florida fires of 1998.
Southeast Georgia is extremely dry, with rainfall deficits of 6 to 8 inches for the year. We pray for rain and for the safety of the firefighters and the residents of the area.
Including this one:
Pogo the Possum by Walt Kelly
