Burn Ban in Effect in Smith County

TYLER — On Friday, Smith County Judge Nathaniel Moran issued a burn ban due to rapidly increasing wildfire conditions. Moran issued the “Order Prohibiting Outdoor Burning” after receiving the recommendation from the Smith County Fire Marshal’s Office and Office of Emergency Management. Smith County Fire Marshal Connie McCoy-Wasson said in the previous two days, fire departments battled six fires burning about 35 acres in Smith County. On Thursday, the humidity dropped dangerously low and winds picked up, increasing the risk of wildfires. She said they are expecting the conditions to worsen over the weekend.

Moran’s order prohibits all outdoor burning for 90 days, unless the restrictions are terminated earlier. The Smith County Commissioners Court will consider ratifying Moran’s order issuing a burn ban at its regular meeting at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 7. On Friday morning, the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) for Smith County was 667. Used to determine forest fire potential, the KBDI ranges from 0 to 800. In the past, Smith County has issued a burn ban when the drought index falls around 700. Anyone needing more information about available assistance, or anyone with questions related to the burn ban, call the Smith County Fire Marshal’s Office at 903-590-2655.