State Fire Marshal Says Missouri
Must Act to Avoid Similar Wild Fire Devastation
SPRINGFIELD, Jan. 6, 2005-The National Weather Service
in Springfield has issued a “Fire Weather Watch” over
the weekend for the Missouri Ozarks. The weather system creating the
wildland fire problems in Texas and Oklahoma during this past week
will be moving into the state.
Over the past 12 months the southwest region of the
state has experienced below average precipitation. Rainfall deficits’
ranging from 10 to 16 inches has created severe drought conditions
in the Ozarks. Weather forecasts indicate temperatures will reach
into the 60’s on Saturday and Sunday.
With the unseasonably warm weather this weekend many
citizens may see an opportunity to work outdoors around their property
clearing leaves and other dead vegetation. State Fire Marshal Randy
Cole urges Missourians to refrain from any open burning when conditions
such as this are present.
“We need to avoid any repeat of the devastation
that has occurred in Texas and Oklahoma and raise the public’s
awareness as to the effect weather conditions have in relation to
open burning,” Cole said.
Property loss is a concern, however, more importantly
is the potential loss of life resulting from a small leaf fire escalating
to an out of control natural cover fire.
“Not only are residents in danger in these situations
but so are our responding firefighters,” Cole said.
In addition, please be aware that local jurisdictions
may be issuing “burn bans” in their area as a result of
this fire weather watch. Violations of such burn bans may result in
criminal charges.