Georgia Outdoor Burning Ban: 91 Counties

Georgia's State Forester Johnny Sabo issued a ban on outdoor burning for 91 counties in the southern half of the state, effective today. The ban covers Screven County and surrounding areas as the state confronts an extreme drought that has sharply increased wildfire risk.

Sabo said wildland firefighters are responding daily to near-record numbers of wildfires. "We need everyone to take this situation seriously," he said.

The Georgia Forestry Commission will provide details on prohibited burning types and the ban's duration.