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As Conditions Worsen, Wildfires Reach Twice Last Year's Levels

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TBO.com

Published: March 10, 2009

TAMPA - Florida has recorded twice as many wildfires as a year ago at this time and the danger increases every day.

Since Jan. 1, 1,024 wildfires have burned 24,730 acres, compared with 508 fires and 11,292 acres at the same time in 2008, according to the state Division of Forestry. Because lightning season has yet to begin, most of the fires were caused by humans.

Charles H. Bronson, state agriculture and consumer services commissioner, said in a news release today that Floridians can help by avoiding any unnecessary outdoor burning.

A lack of rainfall, especially in Central and South Florida, coupled with recent freezes have left Florida's vegetation ripe for wildfires.

Statewide, the leading drought index stands at 520, well above normal for this time of the year. The 0-800 index, with zero the highest level of soil moisture, also shows nearly half of Florida is experiencing "severe" dry conditions.

High pressure will remain over the state this week, keeping warm and dry conditions in the forecast. Drought conditions are expected to worsen, the Division of Forestry said, until summer rains bring moisture.

So far this year, eight homes have been destroyed by wildfires and 30 have been damaged.

The main causes have been debris burning, at 19 percent, and arson, at 16 percent.

Twelve Florida counties have enacted burn bans: Citrus, Marion, Flagler, Glades, Hendry, Hernando, Lake, Osceola, Pasco, Polk, Sumter and Volusia.

Tips for preventing wildfire:

- Never leave a campfire unattended.

- Don't throw cigarettes or other lighted material out of car windows,

- Clear gutters of leaves and remove vegetation around homes to create a 30-foot buffer.

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