A screenshot of the Aug. 14 National Weather Service Drought Information Statement.
Independence County has enacted a fire burn ban until further notice, County Judge Kevin Jeffery announced.
Residents are advised to avoid all outdoor burning during this period.
Persistent late-summer dryness is prompting restrictions across north-central and northeast Arkansas. According to the Aug. 14 drought statement from the National Weather Service, parts of Arkansas are experiencing moderate drought (D1), with 61% of the state classified as abnormally dry (D0). Over the past 30 days, rainfall has been mostly two inches or less, increasing wildfire risk. Forecasters also warn of a continuing drying trend early this week.
Regionally, additional burn bans have been reported in Cleburne, Fulton, Izard, Sharp, and White counties. Conditions can change rapidly as local officials issue or lift restrictions. Arkansans can consult the Forestry Division’s real-time map for the latest county burn status before any outdoor burning.
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