BROOKHAVEN — Mississippi Forestry Commission warned Mississippians of wildfire risks in June in the wake of severe storms which left tree debris in yards and fields across the state. Debris burns are one preventable cause of wildfires because they can be conducted in a safe manner. 

MFC’s warning in June stressed the importance of knowing weather conditions, fuel load, how dry things were and the use of fire breaks to prevent fires from getting out of hand. Despite the warnings, wildfires still blazed in the region. 

MFC reported 15 total wildfires consumed 172 acres in Lincoln, Lawrence and Jefferson Davis Counties from April 1 to July 5. While the greatest risk for wildfire is in October to April, wildfires can happen anytime of the year. 

Summer was traditionally the burn window for lightning sparked fires in the southeastern United States. Firebreaks and road systems have disrupted the natural fire ecology. Humans can carry out growing season burns in the summer can help control undesirable woody structure in fields and woods but they can be risky if people don’t take the proper precautions. 

Be sure to stay weather aware as thunderstorms and sudden changes in wind conditions can turn a safe fire into a dangerous one. Wildfire prevention plans for Lincoln, Lawrence and Jefferson Davis Counties can be found on the MFC website.