LITTLE ROCK, AR — Cleveland County is one of 25 counties across southern and eastern Arkansas included ina Red Flag Warning issued Thursday afternoon by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture.
A Red Flag Warning means that county is now classified at extreme wildfire risk. Cleveland County as well as 49 other counties are currently under a burn ban.
Persistent drought, extremely dry vegetation, and a cold front making its way across southern Arkansas today (Friday, Oct. 16) are contributing to conditions that allow fires to ignite easily and spread rapidly, the department stated. Even a small spark can quickly develop into a large wildfire.
In addition to Cleveland County the following counties are at considered to be at extreme risk: Arkansas, Ashley, Bradley, Calhoun, Chicot, Desha, Drew, Hempstead, Howard, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lincoln, Little River, Miller, Nevada, Ouachita, Pike, Sevier, Union
Elevated wildfire danger is expected to continue in the coming weeks. So far this year, the Department of Agriculture has suppressed 1,700 fires impacting 39,000 acres.
To help prevent wildfires, the Department urges Arkansans to take the following precautions:
• Avoid outdoor burning. This includes campfires, trash burning, open-flame grilling, and prescribed or controlled burns.
• Never leave an open flame unattended.
• Use caution around dry vegetation. Avoid driving over tall, dry grass, ensure trailer safety chains do not drag, and do not drive on flat tires.
• Take precautions during outdoor activities. Hunters, campers, and others spending time outdoors should be aware of fire risks and carry water to extinguish sparks from equipment or muzzleloader firearms.
• Properly extinguish and dispose of cigarettes. Never throw cigarettes or other smoking materials onto the ground or out of a vehicle.
Report wildfires immediately by calling 1-800-468-8834 or contacting local authorities.
Arkansans can monitor current conditions by checking the Department’s county‑by‑county fire map, viewing active incidents on the wildfire dashboard, and following updates on social media.
See the Arkansas Division of Agriculture Wildfire Danger by following this link: https://mip.agri.arkansas.gov/agtools/Forestry/Fire_Info/Wildfire_Danger?show_districts=False