Georgia Wildfire Balloons to 31 Square Miles

0:00It's April 26, this is U.S. News Today, U.S. News powered by AI. One of the biggest wildfires raging in Southeast Georgia, the highway 82 fire, just balloon passed 31 square miles. It's only 7% contained after starting April 20, and it's already wiped out at least 87 homes. Officials reported it doubled in size overnight from strong winds, sparked originally by a foil balloon snagging power lines. And orders could drop any moment, with county leaders urging everyone to get out fast to avoid getting trapped. Firefighters have protected tons of structures despite the chaos, but the damaged tallies on hold till it's safer to check. Leaders call the whole scene heartbreaking, especially with winds cranking up for another tough day. This blaze is one of over 150 wildfires scorching Georgia and Florida this spring. Wind drought, gusty winds, climate change, and dead trees from Hurricane Helene last year are fueling the nightmare.

1:00More crews are rolling in today and tomorrow to pour resources into the fight, but with smoke-blanketing cities and air alerts up, it's clear this. Fire season's testing everyone to the limit.