CHELSEA, Ala. (WBRC) – The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for parts of Alabama on Monday because of dry, windy conditions – weather that helps wildfires spread.
Chelsea Fire and Rescue reports that a wildfire started Sunday around Highway 11 and Oak Mountain State Park.
Chelsea Fire, Cahaba Valley Fire, and Alabama Forestry crews all responded.
On Monday, firefighters told WBRC more than 80 acres had been burned after the fire reignited.
“These fires aren’t like houses,” said Captain Joshua Rossetti. “They’re wind driven. You can’t put water on these fires because these just so much land that we just don’t have that ability.”
Captain Rossetti tells WBRC the cause of the fire is under investigation but it is now contained.
“The area’s safe,” Rossetti said. “You’ll see low lying smoke.”
However, the conditions are still dry, and he does not want another fire popping up.
He said the weather right now is prime for it.
“The humidity’s really low,” he added. “Were in a mild drought condition, and the winds are really high.”
Windy weather can spread embers.
During wildfires like this one, the Alabama Forestry Commission brings in bulldozers to create firebreaks.
“Dead leaves, grass, all those things are fuel for the fire,” said Balsie Butler with the Alabama Forestry Commission. “We’re removing that fuel from the forest floor.”
While crews work to keep the community safe, experts strongly urge people to avoid burning during this time.
However, if Alabamians are going to burn anyways, they want them to be smart about it.
“If you have to burn, just make sure you extra personnel onsite, extra equipment on site,” Butler said.
“Always supervise your fires,” Rossetti said. “Try to have a water source nearby to extinguish it if it extends, and if you even think it’s going to get out of control, call us.”
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