Comal County lifts burn ban following recent rain

Comal County lifted its burn ban Jan. 10 following recent rainfall, according to a social media post from the county.

The decision comes after recent rainfall lowered the Keetch-Byram Drought Index, or KBDI, to 493, the post states. The KBDI measures soil dryness and fire risk on a scale of 0-800, with higher numbers indicating increased fire potential, according to the Texas Weather Connection.

What it means

Since Comal County has lifted its burn ban, residents are allowed to burn items outdoors, but county officials urge residents to exercise caution. Wind conditions remain a critical factor and burning is not permitted if wind speeds are predicted to exceed 23 mph during the burn period, according to county officials.

County officials are reminding residents to:

• Keep fires at a safe distance from structures and flammable materials
• Never leave a fire unattended
• Have water or fire suppression tools readily available

Learn more

For updates on burn ban status and safety guidelines, Comal County residents can visit the Comal County Fire Marshal’s website.