A burn ban on all outdoor burning in Henry County will continue until further notice, and violators may face criminal charges.
Extremely dry conditions have led to wildfires in several localities, including Bedford County, where 1,400 acres were reportedly impacted as of Tuesday. In Patrick County, fire crews have been battling what began as a brush fire involving 20 to 30 acres on Oct. 30. By Monday, Nov. 14, that blaze was estimated to have affected up to 1,200 acres, underscoring the fact that the unusually dry weather conditions have created a high risk of wildfires.
The burn ban in Henry County that prohibits all outdoor burning until further notice went into effect on November 8. The only exceptions to the ban are covered gas, electric, or charcoal barbecue grills/smokers and manufactured outdoor wood furnaces.
Under certain circumstances, a permit for outside fires during the burn ban can be obtained.
Contact the Fire Marshal’s Office or visit www.hcdps.com online for more information.
The National Weather Service forecasters expect these extreme conditions to continue into the near future, with only a slight chance for precipitation during that period. This will contribute to the county’s already challenging firefighting conditions. The effects of successive weeks of very little rainfall have significantly elevated our fire danger throughout the county.
“Henry County, along with adjoining jurisdictions, are at a high level of fire danger,” said Lisa Garrett, Henry County Fire Marshal. “Conditions are dangerous, and we need everyone to understand the seriousness of this issue. We need this ban for everyone’s protection.”
Citizens are asked to cooperate by adhering to the ban until it is rescinded. Failure to comply may result in criminal charges.
Call the Fire Marshal’s Office at (276) 634-4660 with questions.
Extremely dry conditions persist across the region, as evidenced by the low water level at Phillpott Lake, near Ryan’s Branch. (Photo by Pat Delaney)
