Craighead County has implemented a burn ban due to heightened wildfire risks as Northeast Arkansas experiences an ongoing historic drought.
County Judge Marvin Day announced the ban on Tuesday. Craighead joins a growing list of northeast Arkansas counties with similar restrictions. Statewide, 51 counties are now under burn bans, according to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture.
The National Centers for Environmental Information reports that the area would require over 15 inches of rain in a single month to recover from the drought conditions. Judge Day emphasized that such extreme dryness creates conditions where fires can start and spread rapidly.
“Typically, it comes to our attention when we’ve heard from our local fire chiefs, whether it’s the paid ones or the volunteers, that things are out of hand and their resources are getting stretched too thin,” Day said in a statement. He added that factors like low humidity, high winds, and critical fire weather forecasts also contribute to the decision-making process.
Fires ignited in dry conditions can quickly escalate, particularly if brush piles or campfires are unattended. Officials stress the importance of staying with any fire until it is fully extinguished and calling 911 immediately if it spreads out of control.
Judge Day also noted that he consults with the Arkansas Forestry Commission and monitors rainfall totals closely before rescinding a burn ban. He acknowledged the urgent need for significant rainfall, stating, “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.”
Residents planning controlled burns of trees or brush are required to notify their local fire department at least 24 hours in advance. Leaf-burning rules, however, differ and do not require prior notification. Additional guidelines can be found on the city’s fire department webpage.
Craighead County remains at high risk for wildfires, underlining the importance of adhering to these restrictions. Officials recommend exercising caution with any open flames as the drought persists.