Burn Bans Expand Across Southwest Arkansas as Wildfire Risk Remains High

Howard, Pike, Hempstead, and Sevier counties are now under an active burn ban, joining a growing number of counties across Arkansas implementing restrictions due to elevated fire danger.

State officials report that approximately two-thirds of Arkansas is currently under a burn ban. While Little River, Nevada, Polk, and Montgomery counties have not yet issued bans, fire danger in those areas remains high.

According to the Arkansas Forestry Division, the entire state is at an increased risk for wildfires. Persistent dry conditions, gusty winds, and unseasonably warm temperatures have combined to create hazardous conditions statewide.

Residents are urged to use caution and comply with all burn restrictions. Outdoor burning is prohibited in affected counties until conditions improve and significant rainfall is received.

Relief may be on the horizon, with rain chances entering the forecast midweek. A slight chance of rain begins Wednesday, with the highest likelihood on Thursday, when there is an 80 percent chance of rain during the day and a 50 percent chance Thursday night.

Officials emphasize that until meaningful rainfall occurs, the wildfire threat will remain elevated.