Here is the latest advisory on the fire as of Tuesday afternoon. Furnished by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS):
“Acres: 2,958
Containment: 20%
Start Date: 03/22/2025
Location: Clayton, GA
Fuels: Timber
Personnel: 281
Resources: 6 crews | 14 engines | 4 dozers | 1 helicopter
The Big Ridge Fire received 0.75 inches of rain from the storm system that passed through the area Sunday and Monday and containment increased to 20%. Structure protection specialists from the Georgia Forestry Commission will continue visiting communities around the Big Ridge Fire along Warwoman Creek.
Fire Activity: …In specific locations where fuels are exposed to wind and sun, there will be a chance of open flame and creep. On the north side of the fire closest to Sky Valley the fire has been contained from Rabun Bald to Wilson Gap. …Firefighters will take advantage of improved conditions to continue construction and improvement of direct and indirect fire control lines in all directions. All areas where direct lines have been completed will be the focus of mop up. This activity consists of putting out all remaining pockets of heat, such as stump holes, logs, and deep layers of duff.
The U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations is seeking information regarding the circumstances around the cause of the Big Ridge Fire. If anyone was in the area on March 22, 2025, and observed suspicious activity please call the Georgia Forestry Commission Arson Hotline 1-800-428-7337.
Evacuations: None.
Closures: A closure order is in place for the vicinity of the Big Ridge Fire. For details visit https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-closures/gachf-big-ridge-fire “
