Columbus: smoke from a distant fire

Columbus and area residents awoke Thursday morning to a heavy pall of smoke from the wildfires in the southeast part of the state.

About a half-million acres are ablaze or smoldering in the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, and nearby areas.

Similar conditions were experienced throughout the area on Wednesday, as well; city and county officials met to discuss possible responses, including scaling back public sports events.

Columbus health officials suggests curtailing outside activities, and staying inside with the windows closed.

The Muscogee County Sheriff's Office recommends motorists turn on their headlights, and use the same caution in the reduced visibility as they would in fog.