Montgomery, AL –In reaction to the ongoing drought conditions that are affecting Alabama governor Kay Ivey has taken decisive action by committing to a statewide Drought Emergency Declaration, commonly called a “No Burn Order. The decree is effective on the 9th of November, 2023 at 8:15 a.m. Central Standard Time prohibits burning in the outdoors across the state.
Alabama is battling extremely dry conditions, thereby increasing the danger of wildfires. Governor Ivey applauded the constant work from State Forester Rick Oates and his team who are tirelessly trying to ensure the security of forests and keep fires at bay.
“This declaration is designed to stop unnecessary burning, and reduce the likelihood of fires that could be avoided. I encourage residents of Alabama to take note of the warnings,” Governor Ivey stated.
The Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) has been responding actively to the growing crisis since the state-wide fire Alert was announced on the 24th of October. As of today, AFC firefighters have addressed 352 wildfires that have resulted in the burning of 3,199 acres across the state.
The State Forester Rick Oates emphasized the necessity of these restrictions on burning because of the persistent lack of precipitation as well as the possibility of ignition by fuel. He observed a worrying increase not just in the number as well as the magnitude of wildfires in the last month. Oates stressed the risky conditions where any outdoor fire can quickly become out of control, which requires additional firefighting resources to control and contain the fire.
Despite forecasts of rain during the week, the amount is expected to be insufficient for reducing the threat of wildfires.
It is expected that the Drought Emergency Declaration order will be in effect until it is cancelled by the State Forester, indicating a significant change in conditions that lessens the likelihood and the frequency of wildfires. For information on violations of this decree, citizens are urged to report the violations to local law enforcement officials. Further information on the current wildfire situation in the state can be found on the Alabama Forestry Commission’s website at www.forestry.alabama.gov.
