A statewide burn ban begins on Sunday, March 16 and lasts through May 14. It’s enforced every year in an effort to prevent wildfires and protect communities during heightened conditions for wildfires each spring.

Washington County officials reinstated a countywide burn ban, effective immediately on. The ban will be in effect for at least a week.

Experts have issued multiple burn bans across Arkansas as a result of the high winds, low humidity, and dry conditions in the state.

Bastrop County Judge Gregory Klaus issued the burn ban in response to dry conditions. The ban is enforced through March 19 and carries penalties for violations.