Arkansas officials urge public to stay alert during high wildfire risk
LITTLE ROCK — The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is urging Arkansans to stay alert as wildfire danger has increased significantly across the state.
More than 75% of the state has been designated as high risk for wildfire and burn bans have been issued for 51 counties. The increased threat is primarily due to strong winds from a cold front combined with low humidity and dry conditions.
To help residents understand the wildfire threat, the department maintains a county-by-county wildfire danger map with four risk levels: extreme, high, moderate, and low. Risk levels are determined by fuel conditions, drought status, and long-term weather forecasts. They are categorized by how easily fires can start and how hard they are to contain.
The risk level definitions are:
• Extreme: Fires start quickly, spread furiously, and burn intensely. Every fire started has the potential to become large. Expect extreme, erratic behavior.
• High: Fires ignite easily and spread quickly. Unattended brush fires and campfires are likely to escape. Fires may become serious if not attacked early.
• Moderate: Fire can start from accidental causes. May not become serious, but caution should be taken.
• Low: Fuels do not ignite easily. Weather conditions will lead to slow spread and relatively easy to control fires.
All Arkansans are advised to take the following precautions:
• Avoid Outdoor Burning: Arkansans should avoid outdoor burning, even in areas that are not under a burn ban. Avoid activities that involve an open flame including fireworks, campfires, trash burning, open flame grilling, and prescribed or controlled burns.
• Exercise Caution: Arkansans should exercise caution when driving or operating machinery. Avoid vehicle operation in dry grass, make sure trailer safety chains are off the ground, and avoid driving on a flat tire.
• Be Prepared: As the season changes, Arkansans should be prepared when participating in outdoor activities such as hunting and camping. Be aware of local conditions and always carry water to extinguish any sparks from muzzleloader guns or machinery.
• Report Fires: The department is asking those who see fires to report them by calling 1-800-4688. Avoid flying drones in the area as these disrupt firefighting efforts.
• Stay Informed: Keep up to date on conditions across the state by viewing the county-by-county map and following the department on social media.
The department is responsible for the protection of more than 15 million acres of non-federal forestland in Arkansas. Since October 1, 2024, it has suppressed more than 100 wildfires on 1,116 acres across the state. This year, more than 700 wildfires have burned 15,000 acres in Arkansas. Department foresters and rangers engage daily in wildfire protection activities, including prevention, detection, and suppression efforts.
