Dry weather and warming temperatures have increased the risk of fire in Benton County.

NO OUTDOOR BURNING OF ANY KIND

Benton County officials on Friday (June 2) raised the fire danger level to moderate, rise from a low place. According to the county, the levels are:

“Low – Fire is unlikely to occur. Weather and fuel conditions slow fire spread, lower intensity, and are relatively easy to control with light sweeping. It can be done with reasonable safety.”

Moderate – Some wildfires may be expected. You can expect moderate flame length and spread speed. It’s usually not difficult to control and you can expect light to moderate mopping. Controlled combustion can be performed without causing hazards, but care must be taken on a daily basis.

High – wildfires are possible. Continuous heavy fuel fires such as mature grasslands, CRP fields and forest litter become difficult to control in windy conditions. Suppression by direct attack may be difficult but possible and requires mopping up. No outdoor public bonfires are permitted, except for legal recreational fires in metal fire rings. ”

Agricultural burning is permitted, but requires a special permit and advance notice by the agricultural producer to county authorities.

With temperatures reaching 90 degrees Celsius this week, the fire hazard could rise again.