Florida’s top agriculture official is urging caution as residents prepare to celebrate Independence Day next week, warning that wildfire risk remains high despite recent rain.
State Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson said nearly 2,500 wildfires have broken out across Florida since the start of the year, making it one of the state’s busiest fire seasons in recent memory. While recent rainfall has eased drought conditions somewhat, Simpson said the danger hasn’t passed.
“The past six months have been one of the state’s busiest fire seasons in recent memory,” Simpson said. “And though recent rains have helped rein in drought conditions, the risk of wildfire still exists in Florida and needs to be taken seriously.”
Burn ban status varies across the Tampa Bay region. Hillsborough County has an active emergency burn ban due to ongoing drought conditions and wildfire risk, and Pinellas County maintains its year-round ban on burning yard debris, construction debris, and household trash. Manatee and Sarasota counties have also reinstated burn bans amid dry conditions. Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, and Polk counties currently have no bans in place.
Officials said previously permitted fireworks displays will proceed as scheduled, and flares discharged over the Gulf will still be allowed. Personal fireworks on land, however, will not be permitted in areas under burn restrictions.
Residents are encouraged to check with their local county for specific burn ban rules before the holiday.
Follow the St. Pete-Clearwater Sun on Facebook, Google, & X
St. Pete-Clearwater Sun: local St. Pete-Clearwater news at PIE-Sun.com
Leave a Reply