Alabama Dry Spell Sparks Multiple Fires: In Birmingham, the dry spell is no joke. The fire alert is sounding loud, and the forestry leaders are serious about it. The last 48 hours brought multiple brush fires, making it clear that the parched conditions are a real threat.
The Alabama Forestry Commission is waving a red flag across the entire state, especially the northern part, where burn permits are a no-go. North Birmingham Fire and Forestry Commission leaders emphasize the heightened risk due to the current weather. Theyâre not playing around; a tiny spark could set acres ablaze.
Karl Byrd, the Alabama Forestry Commission Northwest Regional Fire Specialist, gives us the numbers: âAbout 53 fires on Saturday, 32 on Sunday. So that is way up from what is normal.â The Forestry Commissionâs reports 147 wildfires in the state right now, with 134 contained, two controlled, and 11 still active.
Byrdâs cautionary words echo in the dry wind: âRight now it is really about trying to get people to be cautious. It may come to a point where we have to ban all outdoor fire burning. That is probably coming if we donÂt get some significant rainfall.â
Birmingham Fire and Rescue have been on their toes, responding to brush and wildfires popping up. Captain Orlando Reynolds shares, âThey got a brush fire going on right now.â I-59 and Messer Airport and 64th Street North were recent fire hotspots. The dry conditions turn small sparks into towering flames in no time. If something looks off, donât hesitate to dial 911.
Even if the flames are out now, the warning stands strong. Burning in these dry conditions is no joke. Law enforcement reminds us that causing a fire could lead to misdemeanor charges or worse.
ALSO READ: Alabama Faces Severe Drought: Woes Across the State Under Fire Alert
Our Readerâs Queries
Is the Alabama burn ban still in effect?
With immediate effect, all burn restrictions in the state of Alabama have been lifted. The Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) will resume issuing burn permits as per usual. This applies to 11 counties in the northeast of Alabama that were previously under a âNo Burnâ directive issued by the Governor.
What is the burn law in Alabama?
Unauthorized burning is considered a Class B misdemeanor, which can result in a six-month jail sentence and/or a $3,000 fine. To obtain a permit, dial 800-392-5679. For further information, reach out to any AFC county office or visit the forestry departmentâs website. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media Inc.
What is a fire alert in Alabama?
Fire Alert issued by Alabama Forestry Commission enables restriction of burning permits.
Are wildfires common in Alabama?
Alabama rarely experiences wildfires, but recent droughts have demonstrated their potential for occurrence.