As drought conditions continue to impact the state, the Mississippi Forestry Commission (MFC) is requesting equipment and personnel from across state lines.
The MFC reports that engine and dozer strike teams from the Florida Forest Service have assembled to combat the wildfires in Mississippi.
More help is expected from other states, including Alabama, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
In addition to out-of-state resources, several local, state, and federal resources are being utilized, including the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and U.S. National Park Service.
“We are grateful for the out-of-state resources coming to Mississippi. We are continuing to see extreme drought-level conditions,” MFC State Forester Russell Bozeman said.
“A few rain showers aren’t enough to saturate the ground and decrease wildfire risk right now. The agency does currently have a shortage of wildland firefighters, so the current crews have been exhausted. Thankfully, our neighboring states have come in to offer help. Mississippi often sends resources to other states in need, and we appreciate the outpouring of support currently.”
There are currently 45 Mississippi counties under a burn ban. No outdoor burning of any kind is permitted under the ban.
Since August 1, MFC has responded to more than 760 fires that have burned more than 14,163 acres.
