Mississippi News

Mississippi enforces burn bans in 47 counties amid wildfire risk

More than 40 counties across Mississippi are under active burn bans, according to the Mississippi Forestry Commission. The bans prohibit all outdoor burning, including campfires, fire pits, burn barrels, brush clearing, and field burning.

Counties marked in red on the agency’s map are completely restricted from burning. The commission advises residents to check for updates regularly, as the list of affected counties can change at any time.

Violations are enforced by county sheriff’s departments. Knowingly burning during a burn ban is a misdemeanor and can lead to fines of up to $500 per violation. The only exceptions are enclosed gas or propane grills, gas heaters, and charcoal grills.

Authorities urge residents to help prevent wildfires and protect communities, emergency responders, and forests. For the latest updates and complete list of affected counties, visit https://bit.ly/3TK2YOg.

Source: Original Article

Jon Ross Myers

Jon Ross Myers is the founder and executive editor of the Mississippi News Group