Highway 82 Fire in Brantley County Forces Evacuations, Destroys 54 Homes Near Brunswick

Brantley County officials report that a wildfire along Highway 82 has destroyed 54 homes and forced mandatory evacuations as it continues to burn across more than 5,000 acres.

The fire, which began earlier in the week, has prompted school closures for Thursday and Friday and led to the evacuation of dozens of residents seeking shelter in local facilities.

According to Brantley County Sheriff’s Office updates, the wildfire has remained stable since early Thursday morning but is currently only 15% contained, with wind conditions remaining unpredictable and capable of causing rapid changes in fire behavior.

County manager Joey Cason confirmed that despite the extensive property damage, only one firefighter has suffered minor injuries, which were treated and are expected to heal fully.

Over 20 fire departments from local and state agencies are actively engaged in firefighting efforts, supported by resources mobilized following Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp’s declaration of a State of Emergency for 91 South Georgia counties due to ongoing wildfire threats.

Emergency responders have blocked off certain roads in the affected area, and officials continue to urge residents to comply with evacuation orders as crews work to gain control of the blaze amid challenging weather conditions.