Due to scarce water supplies and the ongoing emergency response efforts related to the recent storms, Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin authorized a burning ban, effective immediately and continuing throughout the state of emergency.
"West Virginians across the state continue to clean up yards, homes and communities," said Gov. Tomblin. "With our emergency personnel working hard to provide recovery assistance, along with the unusually dry conditions, we must take extra precautions to help prevent accidental fires."
The governor's proclamation authorizes the West Virginia Division of Forestry and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources to issue directives regarding the scope of the burning ban.
"State resources are stretched to the limit as emergency personnel work to assist residents with repair and cleanup from the storm," State Forester Randy Dye said. "People are tired, water supplies are down and some roads are still not accessible. As a result, the Division of Forestry is concerned that outdoor burning at this time could create a hazard."
"We are also working to help prevent any unauthorized burning in wildlife management areas," said Director Frank Jezioro, Division of Natural Resources.
