The Arkansas Forestry Commission reported a significant increase in wildfire activity during September, concluding the quarter with 225 fires affecting over 24,000 acres. The last week of September alone saw a surge of 45 additional fires and 405 acres burned, indicating a concerning trend as the state grapples with ongoing drought conditions.

As of mid-October, the commission noted 74 fires and 754 acres burned, with four fires exceeding 100 acres. The drought monitor indicates that approximately 73% of Arkansas is experiencing some level of drought, with extreme drought conditions reported in the northwest region. This worsening drought has led to widespread burn bans, with around 80% of the state currently under restrictions.

Looking ahead, forecasts predict below-average precipitation through December, raising alarms about the potential for increased wildfire risks. The National Predictive Services has categorized much of the state as having above-normal wildfire potential for the upcoming months. The commission is actively preparing for these challenges, emphasizing the need for community awareness and adherence to burn bans to mitigate fire risks.

For residents seeking updates on fire danger and burn bans, the Arkansas Forestry Commission encourages visiting their website or the dedicated fire information portal. As the situation develops, the commission remains focused on monitoring conditions and responding to the heightened threat of wildfires across the state.