The National Weather Service office in Jackson on Friday issued an elevated fire danger risk for Saturday, saying much drier air combined with gusty winds will increase the likelihood of wildfires across Mississippi.
The post said low humidity and increased fuel loads — including debris left from February winter storms — have left vegetation more susceptible to ignition. It added that high wind gusts can carry embers up to half a mile and start new “spot fires” distant from an initial blaze.
The post listed Alcorn, Hinds, Benton, Rankin, Marshall and Tishomingo counties as being under strictly enforced burn bans, saying no outdoor burning of any kind is permitted in those counties. It urged residents to follow the Mississippi Forestry Commission for the latest information on burn bans and restrictions.
Officials say dry conditions paired with high winds can allow fires to spread rapidly and threaten homes and infrastructure. We will provide more information as it becomes available.
