The Florida Forest Service is urging Floridians to exercise caution because of a significantly heightened wildfire risk throughout the state.
- Heightened risk of wildfires throughout Florida
- Polk County added to 'extreme' category
- FULL COVERAGE: Links to interactive maps, brush fire prevention tips
Most of the southern half of Florida is either in the "very high" or "extreme" category. Polk County was added to the "extreme" category on Thursday.
The fire danger is also considered "extreme" in Orange, Brevard and Indian River counties.
Burn bans have been put in place for Osceola and Seminole counties. Orange and Hillsborough counties have a year-round burn ban, though Orange issued an emergency burn ban earlier this week.
Please use extra caution with anything that can spark a wildfire. High winds and dry vegetation, can fuel a wildfire. Winds supply the fire with additional oxygen, further dry potential fuel and push the fire across the land at a faster rate. pic.twitter.com/ILnpsOnM3d
— FL Forest Service (@FLForestService) March 20, 2018
Officials said the Florida Forest Service has battled more than 700 wildfires across the state so far this year, and drought conditions are expected to continue.
There are more than 40 active wildfires throughout Florida, most of which have been caused by escaped yard trash burns, officials say.
“Many wildfires this year have unfortunately been human-caused,” said Jim Karels, a forestry official. “It’s imperative that Floridians are cautious with fire to help protect Florida’s residents, natural resources, and wildland firefighters.”