Lookout Mountain wildfire being investigated as arson

LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, Ga. (WDEF) — The Georgia Forestry Commission says the fire on Lookout Mountain in Walker County was set on purpose, and they are now investigating the case as an arson.

Lookout Mtn. wildfire (Georgia Forestry)

The Georgia Arson Control Program is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the arsonist.

This is the fire near Highway 157 in Walker County.

Anyone with information on this arson should contact the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) at 1-800-478-7337.

“There’s been no measurable rain for over a month, and conditions are critically dry,” said GFC Director Tim Lowrimore. “Seasonal leaf fall, along with sustained gusty winds, are contributing to high fire risk conditions. We’re recommending any planned outdoor burning be postponed for now.”

The GFC also notes that fires can reignite even if they seem to be extinguished.

They added that anyone who burns in Georgia is legally responsible for any damage it may cause.

Georgia Forestry reports the wildfire is now at about 700 acres, which is up from about 300 acres last week.

It originated a couple weeks ago and even caused damage to a local radio station.

This is in addition to other wildfires in the area, including in Dade County and on Raccoon Mountain.

Northwest Georgia has been under a wildfire warning and burn ban for the past few weeks as well. Experts previously commented on why the Tennessee Valley is seeing an influx in wildfires.

A list of all active wildfires can be found on the Georgia Forestry’s website.