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Hood County imposes 90‑day burn ban after dry conditions, with ability to lift if rain improves
Summary
Following recent drought indices and fire-risk briefings from the fire chief, Hood County commissioners unanimously imposed a 90‑day countywide burn ban but said it can be rescinded early if humidity and KBDI metrics improve.
Hood County Commissioners on Sept. 23 approved a countywide 90‑day burn ban after a presentation by Fire Chief Jeff Young who warned of elevated fire risk despite recent rain. The ban takes effect immediately, with the judge and staff authorized to lift it earlier if conditions improve.
Chief Jeff Young told the court that although recent rain had produced short-term humidity recovery, the KBDI (Keetch-Byram Drought Index) remained in a range that warranted caution and that fires could quickly re-escalate. “My thought at this time would be to go ahead and consider doing the 90 day burn ban with the understanding that if conditions improve and we get rain and the KVDI goes down, a phone call to the judge and that we can lift the burn ban,” Young said.
Commissioner Andrews supported placing the ban in effect now to avoid waiting and risking additional wildfire incidents while commissioners are unable to act. The motion to impose a 90‑day ban passed unanimously, 5–0.
What happens next: The county will monitor weather and fire-weather indices and can lift the restriction early if sustained rain reduces fire danger.
