BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Persistent dry weather and warm afternoons have pushed much of Central Alabama into a deepening drought, prompting fire danger concerns and outdoor burn restrictions across the state. The latest U.S. Drought Monitor report shows widespread Moderate to Extreme Drought stretching from Tuscaloosa to Montgomery and east toward Auburn.
According to the National Weather Service in Birmingham, rainfall deficits have grown sharply through early October, with parts of west-central Alabama—especially Marengo, Perry, and Bibb Counties—now among the driest regions in the Southeast. The Alabama Forestry Commission has issued a Fire Danger Advisory, urging residents to avoid outdoor burning until conditions improve.
Officials warn that any spark could quickly spread due to low humidity and parched vegetation. Residents using heavy equipment or vehicles in dry grass are urged to exercise extreme caution, ensure fires are completely extinguished, and check local restrictions before burning.
The U.S. Seasonal Drought Outlook projects drought to persist and possibly expand through December as high pressure limits rainfall. With soil moisture dropping and creeks running low, forecasters caution that it could take several soaking rain events to ease the dryness.
Residents are encouraged to conserve water and report any wildfire activity immediately to local authorities. For fire safety information, visit forestry.alabama.gov.
