Breaking: Firefighters battle large brush fire in Walton County as high fire danger alert is issued by NWS

Residents are urged to refrain from outdoor burning

The National Weather Service has issued a Special Weather Statement until 7 p.m. today, March 8, 2021, for several areas in Georgia, including Walton County. This is for four hours or more this afternoon due to low humidities of 25 % or less. But already Walton County Fire Rescue firefighters are dealing with the extreme conditions.

“(It’s) another Red Flag warning day,” said Assistant Fire Chief Craig League. “WCFR is on the scene of a large brush fire on Haralson Mill Road near the Rockdale/Walton county line.”

The NWS reports that “winds will be variable in direction, generally 6 mph or less. With dry fuels, high fire danger conditions can be expected.” Residents are urged to use extreme caution if they have to burn and to refer to local burn permitting authorities concerning whether they may or may not burn outdoors.