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Lavaca County holds off on burn ban as KBDI approaches 500; officials urge caution
Summary
Chief Decker told the commissioners that the Keetch-Byram Drought Index was about 495 and advised caution; the court declined to change local burn-ban status but will monitor conditions and consider an emergency order if needed.
Lavaca County officials on Feb. 26 discussed drought conditions and wildfire risk but declined to impose a local burn ban immediately.
Chief Decker briefed the court on current conditions, saying, "As of yesterday, we're at 495," referring to the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI). He explained that although recent rains have produced topsoil green-up, deeper soil moisture remains low and the index is near the county's threshold for increased fire risk.
Decker advised residents to call the sheriff's office before conducting controlled burns and to avoid burning when unnecessary; he cautioned that higher temperatures in the coming days could quickly reduce topsoil moisture. The judge said the court would remain prepared to declare an emergency burn order between meetings if conditions worsen.
No formal action was taken and commissioners agreed to continue monitoring conditions with fire chiefs around the county. The judge reminded the public to report planned burns to the sheriff's office at the number provided in the meeting (798-2121).
