Jasper County imposes burn ban as dry heat grips the area
What do you think?
Jasper County, Missouri, is now under a countywide burn ban, expanding burning restrictions just one day after the city of Joplin implemented its own ban because of increasingly dry conditions.
Commissioners announced the ban Tuesday, effective Sept. 1, citing an increased risk of wildfires and uncontrolled outdoor fires.
The order prohibits outdoor burning throughout the county, including burning brush, leaves, grass, trash and other combustible materials.
Joplin implemented its burn ban Monday. Officials say it will remain in place until conditions improve.
The Joplin Fire Department said all open burning within the city limits is prohibited, including recreational and cooking fires.
Joplin officials said several fires in recent days quickly grew out of control because of the dry weather.
Jasper County officials are similarly warning that dry vegetation can ignite quickly and fires can spread rapidly, particularly during periods of warm temperatures, low humidity, and wind.
The Jasper County ban is scheduled to remain in effect through Sept. 30 unless conditions improve and commissioners lift it sooner.
