Mississippi fire danger rises amid drought and burn bans

Fire danger is rising across the Mid-South, including DeSoto County and Jackson, Mississippi, due to prolonged dry conditions and a lack of forecasted precipitation. The National Weather Service in Memphis warned that elevated fire concerns will persist through much of the week as humidity levels are expected to fall below 30%.

While DeSoto County is not currently under a burn ban, the Mississippi Forestry Commission has expanded its list of counties with active burn bans to 36. The region is experiencing a long-running drought, with approximately 92.5% of DeSoto County classified in severe drought. Forecasters noted that low moisture levels in twigs and dead grass increase the risk of fire spreading easily.