Burn ban declared for the county

As of Tuesday morning, March 18, County Judge Keith Mudd, through an executive order, has declared a burn ban for Lavaca County.

According to the order, Lavaca County has experienced dry weather conditions which has created a potential for hazardous wildfires.

The county has been averaging over 500 on the Keetch-Byram Drought Index and commissioners’ court is authorized to declare a burn ban during periods in which the atmospheric conditions increase the risk of uncontrolled fires.

Uncontrolled fires are a threat to the public health, safety and general welfare of Lavaca County.

The limitations for the burn ban include:

• No campfires unless for religious, heat source, or food preparation.

• No bonfires or burning construction debris.

• No unpermitted controlled burns.

• No burning of yard and household trash unless in an enclosed barrel or proper burn container with a screen cover or spark arrestor.

• No ignition of aerial fireworks.

The National Weather Service has issued a fire weather warning that extends through tonight (Wednesday).

A dryline and Pacific cold front moved across the area Tuesday night bringing strong northwesterly winds and very dry air.

Sustained winds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph will coincide with relative low humidity values of 7 to 14% and dry to extremely dry fuels.

A Red Flag warning is in effect until 9 p.m. for critical fire weather conditions for all of south central Texas.