Wildfire in Long, Georgia

The Georgia Forestry Commission reported that the Elim Church Road Wildfire started near Ludowici, Georgia on March 24, and burned 4035 acres prior to being contained on March 31. The wildfire led to evacuations of the Long County State Prison, a Long County Nursing Home, and numerous residences. Several shelters were set up for those forced to evacuate. The wildfire also resulted in the temporary closure of Highway 84 from near Jesup, Georgia to Elim Church Road near Ludowici, Georgia, the temporary closure of Long County Schools, as well as the destruction of 10 structures, 3 of which were occupied homes.

Warm temperatures in combination with low relative humidity values and breezy conditions, resulted in conditions favorable for wildfire starts in southeast Georgia.