'No end in sight' as Alabama drought causes more than 900 wildfires
Alabama Forestry Commission fight an 80-acre wildfire in Coosa County on October 9. (Courtesy: East Central Regional Forester Bruce Springer)
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Officials say more than 900 wildfires have destroyed over 100,000 acres across the state this month amid an ongoing drought that has no signs of ending anytime soon.
Interim State Forester Gary Cole said in a statement Monday that extremely dry conditions have created favorable environments for wildfires during the past several weeks.
Gov. Robert Bentley on Oct. 12 signed a drought emergency declaration, putting 46 counties under the no burn order.
Cole says that order will remain in effect until weather conditions have significantly improved. Citing a 10-day forecast of low potential for rainfall, Cole says there is "no relief in sight."
Violators of the burn ban could face a fine of up to $500 and up to six months in jail if convicted.