Columbus, Ohio – October 4, 2024 – Despite recent rainfall across many parts of Ohio, numerous counties are still grappling with drought conditions, prompting the continuation of a Ban on Open Burning. Initially ordered on September 6 by State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon, the ban remains in effect for 24 counties classified as being in “Extreme Drought” or “Exceptional Drought” by the United States Drought Monitoring System.
Under the current order, if any portion of a county falls within these drought categories as identified by NOAA and the USDA, the entire county is subject to the burn ban.
“The recent rains have certainly been a welcome sight,” said State Fire Marshal Reardon. “However, they have not provided sufficient moisture to our soil to justify lifting the restrictions in areas still affected by the drought.”
The U.S. Drought Monitor, which tracks these conditions, is produced in collaboration with the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, NOAA, and the USDA. Each week, the monitor is updated based on various factors, including precipitation levels, streamflow, reservoir levels, temperature, and soil moisture, among others.
Drought conditions can persist even after rainfall due to the hardened state of the soil from prolonged dry spells. Recent high winds have exacerbated evaporation rates, further complicating the recovery of moisture in the ground. Additionally, statewide water tables remain significantly below normal levels.
“We recognize the inconvenience this ban imposes on residents,” Reardon acknowledged. “However, it is essential for the safety of Ohioans and their properties given the ongoing dry conditions. We need more rain.”
As of October 4, the following counties are included in the Ban on Open Burning: Athens, Belmont, Carroll, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Gallia, Guernsey, Harrison, Hocking, Jackson, Jefferson, Licking, Madison, Meigs, Monroe, Morgan, Muskingum, Noble, Perry, Pickaway, Tuscarawas, Vinton, and Washington.
Activities prohibited under the ban include:
- Open burning of trash, debris, or yard waste
- Campfires and bonfires
- Discarding lit materials, such as matches or cigarettes
- Using or discharging fireworks
- Live-fire training events
- Flame effect displays, including sky lanterns
- Using spark- or heat-producing devices for recreation
Permitted activities include indoor cooking and outdoor cooking with electric or propane stoves, as outlined in the order. Residents are encouraged to adhere strictly to these regulations to ensure community safety during this challenging period.
