Howard and Pike Counties currently under Burn Bans

A combination of scorching temperatures, winds and very little rain in recent weeks is prompting some Arkansas counties to issue burn bans for the first time this year.

Locally, that includes both Howard and Pike Counties. Howard County issued the burn ban on Wednesday, while Pike County officials announced the burn ban on Thursday. The bans were issued to help limit the potential for fires under the present weather conditions.

Under a burn ban, all outdoor burning is prohibited. Typically these bans remain in effect until the affected county receives enough rain to remedy the fire threat.

Forecasters with the National Weather Service say this week’s heat is not record breaking – however, these high temperatures are dangerous. The listening area is under its fourth heat advisory in as many days today, with heat index values expected to reach as high as 108. That advisory will expire at seven tonight.

At this time there appears to be no relief in sight with daily highs expected to hover around the three-digit mark through at least the middle of next week. However, there is a growing chance for rain mid next-week that could bring some slight relief to the hot and dry weather we’re experiencing.