For the past some two months, every county in Southeast Texas has experienced drought conditions and been under a burn ban. However, recently-improved weather conditions have led three of those counties to lift their bans.
On Thursday, Jefferson and Orange counties lifted their burn bans, which were first put in place on July 28, according to news releases from the counties.
“Recent rainfall and a reduction in the fire danger index have contributed to the decision to lift the burn ban,” the release from Jefferson County states. “While the ban has been lifted, Judge (Jeff) Branick urges residents to exercise caution and follow responsible burning practices.”
Hardin County Judge Wayne McDaniel said his county’s ban, which was put in place on July 27, was lifted Sept. 16.
Jasper and Newton counties continue under burn bans. Jasper County has been under one since July 22 and Newton County since July 19.
RELATED: Southest Texas drought continues, more burn bans issued
As of Friday, 149 out of 254 Texas counties were under burn bans. In mid-August, 178 of Texas’ 254 counties were under burn bans.
Although they are no longer under a burn ban, all of Orange and Jefferson counties and the east half of Hardin County are still experiencing exceptional drought conditions, according to the Thursday update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. All of Jasper and Newton counties are also experiencing exceptional drought conditions. The west half of Hardin County is experiencing extreme drought conditions.
For over a month from the end of July to early September, the Jack Brooks Regional Airport saw no measurable rainfall, the National Weather Service Lake Charles previously told The Enterprise.
“Beaumont received 4.20 inches of rain in the month of September, which is 2.49 inches below their normal for the month,” Meteorologist Chanelle Stigger told The Enterprise Friday. “As far as the month of October is concerned, they have received 0.56 inches of rain.”
