Single Publication

April 6, 2025 

Acres: 3,434 acres                                                                                       Start Date: 03/22/2025 

Location: Clayton, GA                                                                                   Personnel: 115 

Containment: 88%                                                                                        Fuels: Timber 

Resources: 2 crews | 4 engines | 3 dozers | 1 helicopter |1 chipper|1 Excavator

Highlights: This will be the last update for the Big Ridge Fire unless significant activity occurs.  Yesterday crews made good progress on fireline repair.  The only remaining heat on the fire consists of large logs and stump holes and crews will continue searching for and extinguishing this heat. A closure order is still in place around the Big Ridge Fire for firefighter and public safety.  Crews and heavy equipment will still be working and moving around the fire perimeter after this rain passes and the closure will remain in place until it is safe to lift.

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.

Weather:  Heavy rain is expected over the fire area today into Monday.  The forecast today calls for 69 degrees, 71% minimum humidity, and winds southwest 8 mph gusting to 28.  Thunderstorms are possible.  Following this frontal passage temperatures will be much cooler, and humidity will also be lower.

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

More Information: 

Air Quality: https://www.airnow.gov/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChattOconeeNF              

Email: 2025.BigRidge@firenet.gov 

Fire Information: 770-530-3950