Pennsylvania Prohibits Fires on State Lands as Dry Conditions Persist

Earlier this week, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) announced that it is prohibiting campfires on state park and forest lands until further notice. The department also encouraged Pennsylvanians to avoid burning on all lands amid extremely dry conditions across the state.

The DCNR shared in a press release that Pennsylvania had experienced 100 reported wildfires in the past week, with many more unreported. Several volunteer firefighters were reportedly injured in blazes last weekend, “and these ongoing wildfires have strained state and local resources,” the press release said. Recent dry conditions paired with sunny days, unseasonably warm temperatures, and low humidity have heightened the state’s wildfire risk.

“Leaf litter, fine twigs, and dried branches are prime fuel sources for a fire that could get out of control – when mixed with our current dry conditions, we have a potential recipe for disaster,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “I encourage Pennsylvanians to avoid burning on all lands, as it is the best way to protect the people putting their lives in danger to keep our Commonwealth safe from wildfires.”

Related: Massachusetts Governor Urges Safety Amid ‘Unprecedented’ Fire Season

DCNR has paused prescribed burns until further notice. Pennsylvania state park and forest visitors with overnight reservations are being notified that campfires will not be allowed until conditions improve.

View the DCNR’s Wildfire Danger Forecast Map for the most up-to-date information.

Source: Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources