After weeks of little meaningful rainfall in East Texas, wildfire concerns are increasing, and Smith County Fire Marshal Chad Hogue said the county is not ready to relax its burn restrictions.
Hogue told KLTV that officials had received over 200 reports of outdoor burning in the county's unincorporated areas since the ban took effect Aug. 18.
Here's what to know
On Tuesday, Smith County's average Keetch-Byram Drought Index climbed to 721 from 691 a week prior. The 0-to-800 scale is used to gauge wildfire potential.
Hogue said 32 burning calls were reported outside Tyler city limits. Two citations came from those incidents, bringing the total to 29 since Aug. 18, KLTV said.
Under the 90-day order, open flames and fire pits are prohibited. Violations are Class C misdemeanors and can carry fines of up to $500. Limited exemptions remain for enclosed grills or smokers, state-authorized commercial operations, and registered professional welders.
More background
A burn ban is a public safety measure meant to reduce the risk that dry grass, brush, or wooded areas will catch fire and spread flames toward homes, roads, and businesses.
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When landscapes stay hot and dry for long periods, vegetation becomes easier to ignite, and firefighting efforts become more difficult and more costly.
"I don't think we are in a position to lift the burn ban at this time," Hogue said during a monthly county commissioners court meeting, per KLTV.
Where can I learn more?
Smith County isn't alone in dealing with rising fire risk. These stories look at a burn ban in South Carolina and a wildfire emergency in Texas.
• In South Carolina, deputies made an arrest after someone allegedly repeatedly ignored a statewide burn ban.
• In central Utah, officials tightened fire restrictions despite drought relief.
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