NOW IN EFFECT: Leon County Issues Burn Ban Amid Extreme Drought and Red Flag Warning

What Happened

In response to continued extreme dry weather, Leon County, Florida, has enacted a burn ban still in effect due to very dangerous fire weather conditions throughout the county. After the National Weather Service issued a Red Flag warning for this region, indicating a very high probability of wildfires being created due to long-term drought and prolonged periods of extreme weather.

Why the Burn Ban Was Issued?

The reasons for issuing a burn ban are due to the combination of three different effects created by the environment: 

1. Exceptional Dry Condition (Drought) 

2. Extremely Low Humidity 

3. Strong and Gusty Wind

What does a Red Flag Warning mean?

A Red Flag warning is one of the four most severe fire weather warnings that are issued in the United States today. A Red Flag warning indicates that the current weather conditions are conducive to the ignition and rapid spread of wildfire. 

For a Red Flag warning, the weather conditions must meet the following criteria:

1. Dry or near-drought types of fuels (fuel sources) 

2. Very low moisture content of the atmosphere 

3. Strong winds to assist in rapidly spreading fire 

What the Burn Ban Restricts

Burn bans prohibit all types of outdoor burning (yard waste, debris and trash), all open flame (campfires) and any possible way of producing sparks. The ultimate goal of a burn ban is to protect homes and other property from preventable fires during periods of extreme drought.

Advisory for Residents

Citizens in burn ban areas should take all necessary precautions to prevent creating a possible ignitable source of fire. Some examples would be to:

1. Dispose of cigarettes properly

2. Ensure that outdoor equipment does not have the possibility of producing sparks

3. Do not park vehicles on dry grass

Bottom Line

The Leonard County burn ban is an exclusionary safety precaution. It is not a reaction to an active forest fire in the area; however, there are sufficient amounts of dry fuel in the current weather conditions that a small fire can escalate rapidly, becoming out of control. 

FAQs

Where does the burning ban apply now?

Currently, a burning ban has been enacted in Leon County due to the high level of risk of fires.

What caused the burning ban to be instituted?

The combination of dry conditions, low level of moisture in the air, and high winds caused the National Weather Service to issue a Red Flag Warning.

What Is a Red Flag Warning?

A Red Flag Warning is issued when weather conditions are highly conducive to fire, which means fires are likely to start and spread quickly; thus, outdoor burning is considered extremely dangerous.

Can burners or barbecues be used during the burning ban?

In many areas, propane or gas burners will still be allowed, while charcoal burners or open flame cooking may be prohibited. Residents should refer to the appropriate local guidelines for more information.