Area Counties in Extreme Drought

Fire in Marion County Prompts Concern
Local fire departments are reminding the public of the burn ban in effect due to the drought and extreme dry conditions. Even though the area had a small amount of rain over the weekend, it is still very dry and fire danger is high.
Firefighters responded to a fire in north Marion County (Edgar Jones Road) over the weekend. It burned around 10 acres but was contained thanks to the response of local firefighters, including the Oakland, Fort Perry, and Tazewell Volunteer Fire Departments.
There currently is a fire ban that is expected to last until May 22 (or possibly longer if dry conditions persist). That means no fires, even small ones for yard debris, are allowed.
Marion County firefighter Andrew Keste...