Bowie, Miller and Several Other Counties on High Wildfire Alert

Officials in Bowie County have issued a temporary burn ban due to increased wildfire risk caused by the dry and windy conditions we have been experiencing in the area.

Other Counties in our area are following, including in Texas, Harrison, Marion and Red River Counties. In Arkansas, Miller, Hempstead and Lafayette Counties.

According to an order signed by Bowie County Judge Bobby Howell, a local state of disaster has been declared for Bowie County. The order prohibits most outdoor burning in the unincorporated areas of the county for the next seven days.

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County leaders found this action necessary because the normal fire danger has been heightened by below-average rainfall and current weather conditions that could allow fires to spread quickly.

What the Burn Ban Means for Bowie County in Texas

Under the order, all outdoor burning is prohibited in unincorporated parts of Bowie County in Texas, with limited exceptions.

According to the Burn Ban issued, outdoor cooking is still allowed, but only when done in enclosed pits or grills. Burning activities specifically authorized by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for public health and safety may also continue.

Please take this seriously; it could cost you a lot of money. Violating the burn ban is a misdemeanor offense and can result in a fine of up to $500.

Purpose of the Order

County officials say the goal of the ban is to reduce the risk of wildfires during this stretch of dry, windy weather by limiting activities that could spark fires.

Simple Mistakes That Can Spark a Wildfire

Please also remember to dispose of cigarettes and ashes properly. Heat from vehicle engines, especially hot catalytic converters, can cause a spark and ignite dry grass if a vehicle is parked off-road. Dragging trailer chains or loose metal can also throw sparks when they hit pavement, potentially starting roadside fires.

Be careful because even permitted fires, like covered BBQ pits, can reignite if hot coals or ashes are not fully extinguished with water. In addition, items like convex glass, curved mirrors, or magnifying glasses can focus sunlight onto dry materials and spark a fire.

The order for Bowie County will remain in effect for seven days from Monday, February 23, unless the burn ban is extended or lifted by county officials. County Judges from other counties will also be monitoring weather conditions too.

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