Much of southern Maine is under Severe Drought conditions, despite rainfall in recent weeks.
Most of the state is also under moderate fire danger, with the Maine Forest Service now watching for rapidly changing conditions in what are called “1-hour fuels.”
The fuels are dead grass, leaf litter, and pine needles, which only take about an hour to adjust to changing weather conditions. When winds pick up and relative humidity drops, those fuels can dry out quickly and burn if an ignition source is present, often leading to elevated fire danger ratings.
The public is advised to check the daily fire danger rating before burning, always get a permit when burning debris, and being careful with campfires and fireworks, among other things. Free burn permits can be obtained through the state’s online burn permit system.
