Southeastern Fires Hit 80,000 Acres In Six States

Crippling drought conditions are sparking blaze after blaze across six states in the South. More than 30 large wildfires have left a trail of destruction through 80,000 acres in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama and Kentucky, according to the US Forest Service.

"Dry weather, high winds and the continuing drought is driving the large growth of fires," said Dave Martin, Deputy Director of Operations for Fire and Aviation Management for the US Forest Service's Southern Region. He said since the fires are spread out over several states, the agencies resources are being depleted. More than 5,000 firefighters and support staff from around the nation are trying to suppress these fires, he said.

"All of the Southeast is very dry ... fire doesn't know any boundaries," said Brian Haines, spokesman for the North Carolina Forest Service. "Drought conditions are contributing to drier and larger forest fuels being available. These range from the undergrowth to sticks, leaves and logs. Even the smallest of sparks can ignite these very dry fuels."

A number of the fires are being investigated as suspected arson, but natural causes and conditions are also responsible for the fires, Haines said.

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