WARREN, Ark. – As of Thursday night, the entire state of Arkansas is at a high or extreme risk for wildfires, according to the Arkansas Forestry Division. Bradley County has been classified as an extreme risk—the highest level—underscoring the urgent need for caution.
Burn bans are now in effect for all but 26 counties, including Bradley and Union counties. The National Weather Service has issued back-to-back Red Flag Warnings, with strong winds and low humidity creating dangerous fire conditions.
The Bradley County Rural Fire Department released a statement Wednesday, warning, “This is a very dangerous situation. Any wildfire that starts will get out of control quickly.” Officials are urging residents not to burn anything, as even a small fire could rapidly spread under the current conditions.
Thursday’s Red Flag Warning detailed the following fire weather threats:
- Winds: South and southwest winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching 45 mph or higher. A shift to west and northwest winds is expected as a frontal boundary moves in.
- Humidity: Levels will drop into the 20% range before slowly rising after sunset.
- Fire Spread Risk: Any fires that develop are likely to spread uncontrollably. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged.
A Red Flag Warning signals that critical fire weather conditions are present or imminent. With Bradley County at extreme risk, officials stress that strong winds, dry conditions, and warm temperatures could lead to fast-moving wildfires. Residents are urged to follow burn bans and take all necessary precautions to prevent fire outbreaks.