TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

Lack Of Rain, Recent Freezes Create Environment For Fires

ADVERTISEMENT

The Tampa Tribune

Published: March 11, 2009

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

Since Jan. 1, 1,024 wildfires have burned 24,730 acres, compared with the 508 fires that had burned 11,292 acres by this point in 2008, according to the state Division of Forestry. Lightning season has yet to begin; most of the fires have been caused by humans.

Charles H. Bronson, Florida's agriculture and consumer services commissioner, says in a written statement released Tuesday that Floridians can help by avoiding any unnecessary outdoor burning.

A lack of rainfall, especially in Central and South Florida, and 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 year. The index, which runs from zero to 800, with zero indicating 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 until summer rains bring more moisture, according to the Division of Forestry.

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

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.
Fire officials offer these tips for preventing wildfires:

•Never leave a campfire unattended.

•Don't throw cigarettes or other lighted material out of vehicle windows,

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

Keyword: Wildfires for an interactive map of activity in the Tampa Bay area.

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT