Pike County is among a growing number of Arkansas counties with burn bans in place because of dry conditions. 

As of Thursday, Aug. 13, burn bans were in effect in 40 counties, including most of western Arkansas. That’s 10 additional counties from the day before. The entire state was categorized as being at moderate risk for wildfires.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture says that under current conditions, wildfires can easily start from accidental causes.

Pike County Judge Eddie Howard said in a Facebook post Saturday, Aug. 8, that he issued the burn ban after reviewing “some hard numbers” from the National Weather Service. No rain is forecast for the coming week.

“I do not take it lightly putting on a burn ban or lifting one. The weather in Arkansas is very fickle and unpredictable as we all know,” Howard wrote.

One fire in the region on Tuesday, Aug. 11, burned approximately 240 acres in eastern Nevada County, near Reader. Nevada County Fire & Rescue reported on Facebook that it requested assistance from the Arkansas Forestry Commission as dense terrain and limited access kept firefighters from being able to reach the fire directly.

Dangerously hot conditions are forecast through at least Aug. 22, with high temperatures ranging from the mid-90s to above 100 degrees. Heat index values could reach around 110 degrees.

Forecasters said an expansive upper-level ridge has moved over the state, prolonging hot and humid conditions.

In a heat advisory, the National Weather Service urged people to avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day and to stay in air-conditioned areas when possible. People are also encouraged to check on relatives and neighbors.

Those who must be outside should drink plenty of fluids, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and take action if they experience symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.