County extends burn ban

COMMISSIONERS COURT

Officials: Cold increases fire risk

Bastrop County officials last week extended the countywide burn ban, citing ongoing wildfire risk despite damp conditions and recent rainfall.

Commissioners Court voted during a special session Wednesday, Jan. 21, to keep the restriction in effect through midnight Feb. 9. James Altgelt, emergency management coordinator for the Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management, said winter weather can increase fire risk — even after rainfall — as freezing temperatures dry out grasses and other fuels.

“If we got this kind of rain in the summer, it would be proactive in helping reduce the threat of wildland fire,” Altgelt said. “But in the winter, it actually has a counter effect. With freezing temperatures, it’s going to dry out the grass and the fuels that are there, making it even more susceptible to ignition.”

The burn ban will persist regardless of rain or freezing precipitation. Violations may result in a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500.

Certain activities, including welding, cutting and grinding, are allowed under the order but are prohibited on days designated as Red Flag Warning days by the National Weather Service.

County Judge Gregory Klaus filed the order following the vote. The order will expire Feb. 9 unless commissioners determine conditions no longer pose a public safety hazard.

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