(WDNews) – The Alabama Forestry Commission has issued a statewide Fire Danger Advisory as drought conditions and high temperatures persist across much of the state. Officials said the advisory will remain in effect until significant rainfall eases the dry conditions, particularly in central Alabama.
The agency urged residents to take precautions to reduce the risk of wildfires, including postponing outdoor burning when possible. Anyone conducting a prescribed burn must obtain a permit and ensure adequate equipment and personnel are on hand. The commission also advised residents to never leave fires unattended, conduct post-burn patrols, and thoroughly soak debris piles to prevent rekindling.
“Burning debris piles can continue to smolder for multiple days and may spread outside of contained areas under these critically dry conditions,” the commission said. Fires in areas with decaying vegetation, such as forest floors, can also burn for extended periods and cause tree mortality.
Driving vehicles into tall grasses and using equipment like bush hogs, hay balers, or mulchers can also spark fires, the agency cautioned.
The Forestry Commission said it will continue monitoring drought conditions and wildfire activity statewide and will evaluate if further restrictions are needed in the coming weeks.
For more information, visit www.forestry.alabama.gov.
