Travis County officials have lifted a burn ban for unincorporated areas of Travis County that began in February.
Recent rainfall over the weekend of April 3-5 along with additional rain forecasted in the coming days is expected to improve moisture levels and reduce the threat of wildfires, according to county information.
What you need to know
While outdoor burning is now allowed in unincorporated areas, residents should use caution and be aware of fire conditions, according to county information. County officials suggest keeping a fire extinguisher or water nearby while burning.
Before conducting outdoor burning, residents are expected to contact their local fire department and receive any necessary permits. Residents should call 911 if a fire becomes uncontrolled.
What they're saying
“Recent rainfall has significantly improved conditions across Travis County, and with more rain in the forecast, I am cautiously optimistic conditions will continue to improve,” Travis County Fire Marshal Gary Howell said in a news release. “Even so, outdoor burning can still pose dangers if not done responsibly, so we urge residents to stay cautious and prepared.”
The backstory
The county reinstated a burn ban Feb. 10 after county officials responded to 20-25 fires Feb. 7, Howell said at the Feb. 10 meeting. The burn ban was extended Feb. 24 and March 24 as dry conditions and elevated wildfire risk continued.
On March 22, a wildfire broke out at Bastrop State Park consuming at least 46 acres, according to previous Community Impact reporting.
Stay tuned
Residents can receive burn ban status updates by texting TCBURNBAN to 888777.
