NORTH DAKOTA – North Dakota Emergency Services officials say lower than average precipitation and above average temperatures are making it look like an earlier and longer spring fire season in the state.
“We’ve seen severe to extreme drought through the winter across western North Dakota, and moderate drought along the southern and southeastern portions of the state. The lack of significant snowpack during the winter allowed vegetation like grasses to remain standing, allowing them to burn easier. Dry fuels, low relative humidity, strong winds, and warm temperatures are key ingredients for fire weather conditions,” National Weather Service Bismarck Meteorologist Megan Jones said.
The Department of Emergency Services has began agency fire coordination meetings earlier than normal this year to make sure everyone is ready. Officials want to remind you to “learn before you burn” by checking NDResponse.gov/burn for fire danger information, possible burn restrictions and weather conditions. Make sure to keep your eyes on burn piles since they can reignite with high winds.
