Wildfire dangers continue to rise across Arkansas, prompting burn bans in 35 counties statewide, including Cleburne, Fulton, Independence, Sharp, and Stone counties in north-central Arkansas. According to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division, all 75 counties in the state now carry at least a moderate wildfire risk.
The Forestry Division's burn ban map, updated as of 4:33 p.m. Wednesday, shows an increase from earlier in the day, when 30 counties were under restrictions. While many counties are under heightened precautions, Baxter County remains at moderate fire risk but has not yet implemented a burn ban.
The elevated fire danger coincides with an ongoing and potentially record-breaking heat wave affecting much of Arkansas. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for portions of central and northeast Arkansas through 8 p.m. Friday. Heat index values are forecast to reach as high as 109-110 degrees, with daytime highs in the upper 90s to low 100s expected through the weekend and into early next week. Forecasters project little to no rain until at least August 17 or 18, prolonging the dry conditions that contribute to wildfire risk.
Officials attribute the growing fire danger to the persistent heat, dry weather, and increasingly brittle vegetation across the state. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture has urged residents to avoid any outdoor burning while bans remain in place and to promptly report any wildfires by calling the Forestry Dispatch at 1-800-468-8834.
Burn bans may change rapidly based on shifting weather patterns, and residents are encouraged to check with local authorities before conducting any outdoor burning, even in areas not currently under a ban.
For more information on fire danger levels and current burn ban status, visit the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s website.