Alabama (WDNews) — The Alabama Forestry Commission is urging residents to avoid outdoor burning this weekend as fire danger levels increase across the state.
Officials say a combination of dry conditions, lower humidity and rising wind speeds is expected to create a higher risk for wildfires, especially heading into Saturday.
The agency has issued a Fire Danger Advisory for Friday, March 27, with conditions expected to worsen into a Fire Alert on Saturday, March 28. By Sunday, March 29, the threat is expected to ease slightly, returning to a Fire Danger Advisory.
According to the commission, these conditions make it easier for fires to start, spread quickly and become harder to control. Fast-moving wildfires can damage property, destroy forestland and put both residents and firefighters at risk.
Due to the elevated danger, burn permits will be restricted. On Friday, permits will only be issued to Certified Prescribed Burn Managers. No outdoor burn permits will be issued statewide on Saturday. Regular permitting is expected to resume Sunday if weather conditions improve.
Officials also remind residents that burning without a permit can lead to a Class B misdemeanor charge.
The warning follows a recent spike in wildfire activity. Over the past week, 147 wildfires have burned roughly 5,600 acres across Alabama. Several larger fires were reported, including nearly 1,000 acres in Wilcox County and multiple fires exceeding 200 acres in other parts of the state.
Residents are encouraged to report wildfires by calling 800-392-5679 and to stay updated through local forestry offices or the agency’s website.
