BROOKHAVEN — Mississippi is burning up from the dry heat of August. Conditions are suitable for wildfires to ignite and it is a concern but the high temperatures are expected to hit triple digits this weekend.

NWS Jackson warns the temperature could hit a high of 104 Saturday and 103 Sunday. Mississippians should be grateful the humidity is low right now as the heat indexes are around 107. Lows should drop to 74 degrees Saturday and Sunday night.

If the temperature hits a high of 104 today it would tie a record of 104 set in 1999.

The dry and hot conditions put Lincoln County at risk of wildfires. Two fires started in the area on Thursday consuming 25 acres in West Lincoln near the school and 150 acres in Lawerence County near US84 and Hwy. 27. People should take heed of local burn bans in Lincoln, Lawerence, Amite and Walthall Counties.

If you smoke cigarettes you need to dispose of butts properly and not on the ground as just a little spark could set a property on fire. It is also advised to not let trailer chains drag on the roadways. The friction could again generate sparks which could set any dry fuel such as grass, pine straw and brush on fire.

Gov. Tate Reeves announced yesterday the Mississippi Forestry Commission has activated its Incident Management Team in response to the dangerous conditions to respond to wildfires quickly. MFC fights wildfires by clearing fuel with dozers and creating fire breaks, setting a backing fire to take away potential fuel and dropping water from planes.

NWS Jackson does not show any chances for rain in the 7 day forecast.

Be sure to stay hydrated and remember only you can prevent wildfires.