Jackson, Miss– Since Thursday, 10 burn bans have been lifted across the state, according to the Mississippi Forestry Commission.
The following counties are no longer under a burn ban:
- Clarke
- Copiah
- Forrest
- Marion
- Pike,
- Smith
- Walthall
- Perry
66 counties are still under a burn ban, with penalties if those bans are ignored. Forestry officials have urged safety and responsibility for those living in counties where a burn ban is in place.
“Wildfires can start with just a spark and spread quickly to endanger forestland, personal property, and lives. Please do your part to help prevent wildfires by observing local burn bans and exercising proper fire safety.” Charlie Morgan, State Forester, Mississippi Forestry Commission
Burn bans include small campfires and fire pits. The reason for this is that in addition to the open flame, the wind can carry floating embers from the campfire away from the fire and into nearby fuels such as grass or brush. With the high wind and low humidity forecast for this week, a small ember can create a large wildfire quickly. A discarded cigarette can ignite grass, and several fires have started from sparks being thrown from dragging safety chains from trailers going down the road.
Violation of a burn ban could result in fines ranging from $100 to $500. There are exemptions to the burn ban, outlined on the Mississippi Forestry Commission website. Even with these exemptions, anyone wishing to burn should call the Mississippi Forestry Commission as a precaution.
With more rain in the forecast for the weekend, more bans could be lifted.
News Mississippi will continue to update the bans.
