Officials warn against burning debris

Last modified: July 25. 2008 2:01PM Officials with the N.C. Division of Forest Resources encourage residents not to burn debris as the current drought situation has dried forest fuels across the state, particularly in North Carolina’s western region. North Carolina has already had an above average number of fires this year. To date, the state has experienced more than 3,515 wildfires statewide this year, burning approximately 29,992 acres. This does not include the 40,704-acres Evans Road Fire currently burning in the northeastern portion of the state. While recent rainfall has reduced fire danger, this precipitation has not ended the drought conditions the state is facing. La Nina conditions could cause North Carolina to continue having warmer temperatures and below normal precipitation during this fire season. Officials... [read full story]