Craighead County is currently at high risk for wildfires as Arkansas endures a historic drought, though no burn ban is in place at this time.
According to the National Center for Environmental Information, the area would need more than 15 inches of rain over a month to fully recover from the drought. Across the state, 50 counties are under burn bans, as reported by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. In Northeast Arkansas, burn bans are active in Clay, Jackson, and Poinsett Counties.
Craighead County remains on a high-risk list, meaning local authorities could implement a burn ban at any moment. “High risk” indicates that conditions allow fires to start easily and spread rapidly. Unattended brush piles and campfires are more likely to escalate quickly if not promptly addressed.
County Judge Marvin Day explained the factors he considers before instituting a burn ban, citing input from local fire departments as a key component. “Well, typically it comes to our attention when we’ve heard from our local fire chiefs, whether it’s the paid ones and the volunteers, that things are out of hand and their resources are getting stretched too thin,” Day said. Weather conditions such as low humidity and high winds also play a critical role in the decision-making process, he added.
Day said he works closely with representatives from the Arkansas Forestry Commission and monitors rainfall before lifting any restrictions. He emphasized the need for significant rainfall to improve the conditions. “Maybe if I see it running down the side of the street, maybe that’s enough. I think, where we are today, we need some good rains. But, you’d hope an inch or two or three,” Day remarked.
By law, even without a burn ban, residents who plan to burn trees or brush must notify their fire department at least 24 hours in advance. Different rules apply for leaf burning, which does not require prior notification. Additional information on burning regulations can be found on the city’s fire department website.
Officials stress the importance of remaining with any fire until it is completely extinguished. If a fire begins to spread, residents are urged to call 911 immediately.
Craighead County officials continue to monitor conditions closely, as an extended lack of rain leaves the area vulnerable to potentially dangerous wildfires.