Wildfire threatens Coffee County homes - WALB.com, Albany News, Weather, Sports

Wildfire threatens Coffee County homes

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By Dawn Hobby - bio | email
Glenn Leavens: Coffee County Sheriff's Office Glenn Leavens: Coffee County Sheriff's Office
Caitlin Smith: Coffee County Caitlin Smith: Coffee County

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Hundreds of firefighters from numerous fire departments in multiple counties fought a dangerous wildfire in Coffee County Thursday evening.  Firefighters told us around 12:30 a.m. Friday that the fire was 70% contained and some of the fire crews from outside Coffee County were pulling out.  Others will remain on the scene all night.

The fire started as a small brush fire Thursday afternoon.  High winds turned it into a fast-moving inferno near Highway 441 between Broxton and Douglas that burned an estimated 750 acres.

Emergency crews issued a voluntary evacuation order for the Green Tree Lakes and Riverbend Estates subdivisions north of Douglas. Residents were allowed back to their homes as firefighters fought back the flames near them.  Firefighters say fire came within feet of some homes, but we don't know of any major damage.  Highway 441 remained closed overnight.

Coffee County Schools will be open as normal on Friday.  School officials say students who can't make it to class because of the fire will be excused.