Elevated Risk of Wildfire Possible

Forest Service monitors fire weather conditions

Officials with Florida Forest Service’s Blackwater Forestry Center are keeping a close eye on weather conditions this weekend as several factors are emerging that could pose an elevated risk of wildfire.

The drought index has risen almost 100 points in the past week and while the District KBDI of 469 is within the normal range for this time of year, it could signal danger. The spike in KBDI coupled with a decreased relative humidity for the next few days has prompted officials to increase staffing and preposition equipment and personnel to better respond to any potential wildfires.

“With the weather conditions what they are – not much rain recently, dry air coming in and increased drought levels – and higher than usual amounts of traffic on the roads for the holiday, we are taking steps to make sure our response time is what it needs to be if we get a call,” said David Smith, Operations Administrator for the Blackwater District.

Residents are urged use extreme caution and follow all laws if they decide to burn yard debris. Start any burning early before the afternoon sea breeze kicks in and make sure your fire is completely out – no heat, no smoke – before you leave it.

For more information, contact Joe Zwierzchowski with the Florida Forest Service at
(850) 957-6140 ext. 127.