Mississippi faces surge in wildfires amid heat and drought
Wildland and volunteer firefighters in Mississippi are working tirelessly to combat a surge in wildfires fueled by extreme heat and dry conditions.
Shannon Coker, director of communications and government affairs for the Mississippi Forestry Commission, said firefighters have tracked approximately 174 wildfires across the state this month.
"It is a very challenging job and we very much appreciate our wildland firefighters and the work that they do," Coker said.
Volunteer firefighters are also feeling the strain. Rankin County EMA Director Brian Grantham said they have responded to more than six wildfires in the past week, putting significant pressure on departments with limited resources.
"Just by nature, they have full-time jobs that they are at and they have to leave them and go home and respond to fires. In extreme heat like right now, that takes a toll on everybody," Grantham said.
Mississippi has seen little rain in recent days, and temperatures have soared into the triple digits, creating conditions where flames can easily ignite. Officials are urging residents to help prevent wildfires by adhering to burn bans and taking precautions.
"Paying attention to the burn bans, not burning outside especially if it is windy, and to not be using mechanical equipment while it is this hot. I say that because a spark can come out from it and cause a wildfire," Coker said.
"We are asking everybody to not burn at all because the typical campfire in the backyard could spread to cause problems," Grantham said.
Officials are also advising against throwing out items like cigarettes that could ignite fires and ensuring nothing is dragging on roads that could spark flames.
Multiple counties in Mississippi are under burn bans due to the drought, and those who violate the bans could face fines.