CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The continued dry conditions in West Virginia has caused Gov. Jim Justice to issue a statewide outdoor burning ban.
Justice did so by proclamation Monday.
“The Governor’s order makes it unlawful for any person in the state to engage in outdoor burning, including fires built for camping, the burning of debris, or warming,” a news release from the governor’s office said.
There is a concern about the possibility of “catastrophic wildfires” because of dry conditions, low water levels in communities and current fire activity.
The state has been in drought conditions since the spring with no significant relief is in sight. There could be some high temperature records set Tuesday when its expected to be the 80s with breezy conditions.
The governor’s proclamation does list several exclusions from the ban including:
–Fires for the purpose of chemical production, where fire is essential to operation.
–Fires for commercial land-clearing, such as mining, highway construction, and development: Provided, that a permit is obtained from the Division of Forestry prior to burning.
–Training fires conducted under the direct control and supervision of qualified instructors at a training facility operated by a fire department or government entity: Provided, that a permit for such training fires is obtained from the Division of Forestry prior to burning.
–Fires for outdoor cooking conducted for fund-raising events and charitable organizations: Provided, that a water source capable of extinguishing the fire must be present and a permit is obtained from the Division of Forestry prior to the operation.
–Liquid fueled gas grills, lanterns or liquid-fueled gas fire stoves.
The ban will stay in place until conditions improve.