.png)
Officials last week cited heightened wildfire risk and safety concerns after extending the emergency burn ban order for unincorporated parts of Bastrop County, which remains one of the most fire-prone areas in the state.
The order, first enacted Sept. 17 and extended Nov. 24 by County Judge Gregory Klaus, determined local circumstances present a public safety hazard that would be “exacerbated by certain outdoor burning.” The ban makes it illegal to ignite or cause ignition of combustible or vegetative materials outdoors through midnight Monday, Dec. 8.
“The magnitude of the potential damage and the rapidity at which such a fire could escalate to major portions constitute an immediate threat of disaster,” court documents read.
Bastrop County currently ranks 23rd on the Keetch-Byram Drought Index in Texas, one of the counties at highest risk for potential wildfires. The county was among the top five in September.
Arid conditions have seen several illegal burns spark wildfires over the past month, according to officials.
Bastrop/Travis Emergency Services District No. 1 and Austin Fire Department crews responded Nov. 20 to an illegal burn on Bois D Arc Road that spread to about half a football field of construction debris. The avoidable fire threatened nearby properties as dry fuels and gusty winds pushed embers across the area, responders said.
“Burn bans exist for a reason. This is that reason,” ESD representatives said in a statement.
Burn bans are issued by the county based on drought conditions, vegetation dryness, recent rainfall, wind patterns and wildfire potential. Violations could result in a class C misdemeanor, punishable by fines up to $500.
Exceptions include welding, cutting and grinding operations, as long as any fires are accidental and proper safety precautions are taken. Those exceptions do not apply on days when the National Weather Service issues a Red Flag Warning.
Despite projected rainfall, officials said the burn ban is expected to remain in effect.
