Dry Weather Creates Increased Fire Potential

April 8, 2017

Officials with the Florida Forest Service’s Blackwater Forestry Center are issuing words of caution as high winds and low humidity have all but negated the effects of this week’s rainfall.

Thursday brought winds upwards of 25 mph in much of  the three-county area and the forecast calls for extremely low humidity through Sunday. When combined, these factors dry out smaller vegetation such as grass, shrubs and small limbs and debris that while great for backyard burning of yard trash, can increase the chances of a wildfire.

“We’re certainly not in an extreme fire situation, we’re simply urging caution,” said David Smith, operations administrator for Blackwater. “Spring is the peak of Florida’s fire season and we want people to be aware of the potential.”

There are no burn bans in effect in our area but residents must still follow certain requirements: Burning piles of yard debris less than 8 feet in diameter is allowed if it is 25 feet from and wooded area or combustible structure, 25 feet from your house, 50 feet from a paved public road and 150 feet from other occupied dwellings.

Piles greater than 8 feet require a burn authorization from the Florida Forest Service and must meet more stringent standards. For more information about authorizations, call Blackwater  Forestry Center headquarters at (850) 957-5701.

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Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News