AUSTIN, Texas — On Monday, Austin recorded its hottest day of 2024 so far. With more extreme heat on the way, officials are working to prevent wildfires.
Around 12 p.m. on Tuesday, the Travis County Fire Marshal's Office issued a burn ban for unincorporated areas of Travis County for the next 14 days.
Travis County Chief Fire Marshal Gary Howell said, "This week, we’re experiencing dangerous levels of heat and decreasing humidity, which is a troubling combination for wildfire risk."
High temperatures are expected to stay upwards of 100 degrees for Wednesday and Thursday. The Texas A&M Forest Service increased portions of the Hill Country to a "high" risk for wildfire danger both days.
The burn ban will last through Sept. 3. Fines for disobeying this ban can be up to $500. The fire marshal is also discouraging outdoor barbecuing or grilling during this time and suggests you keep a bucket of water nearby for assurance.
For the most part, significant drought remains southwest of our viewing area, but severe drought is knocking on the door of Gillespie County, as of this past week.
The extreme heat will only exacerbate dry conditions over several days, so be sure to be doing you're part to avoid wildfires.
