HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) has expanded its Fire Danger Advisory to include all counties statewide. The AFC states that this decision is due to worsening drought conditions and a lack of significant rainfall in the long-range forecast.
According to the AFC, there have been 246 wildfires in the past 30 days, burning nearly 3,000 acres across the state. The advisory means that during drought conditions, dry plants and other materials that can catch fire easily are more common. This increases the risk of wildfires starting and spreading quickly.
While the AFC is not currently issuing a burn restriction, the agency strongly discourages any outdoor burning until conditions improve. Residents are urged to exercise caution and remain aware of the heightened fire risk.
Terry Ezzell, Northwest Regional Forester with the Alabama Forestry Commission, shared tips for safe burning during the fire danger advisory.
“If you need to burn, make sure you have the tools and people to keep it under control,” Ezzell said in an email to FOX54. “If you can wait until we get some rain, that’s best. If you’re using a backyard fire pit, keep a source of water nearby. Never leave any fire unattended.”
This advisory is effective immediately. For more information, please refer to the Alabama Forestry Commission's guidelines on fire safety and prevention.