SLADE, Ky. (LEX 18) — More than 500 acres have already burned in the Daniel Boone National Forest, (some of which was done intentionally by fire officials to add a line of containment). But with cooler temperatures on the way by Friday, another problem could present itself as the region’s drought continues.
“The winds are going to increase,” said Ludie Bond, a Public Information Officer with the Boone National Forest. “12-15 miles per hour, with gusts up to 25 (MPH). That’s not really favorable to our fire fighters out there,” she continued. Right now, officials are worried about a few blazes, including those near Sky Bridge and Triplett.
As the wind can, and will fan the flames and alter their direction, Kentucky is now receiving help from fire fighters from all over the country. But the continued dry spell, coupled with the cool front which will come with wind on the front and back ends, will make the battle even more challenging. And the challenge could persist through to the end of 2019.
“The picture isn’t looking much better until December,” said Bond, who was given a long range forecast on Thursday morning.
Visitors and campers are reminded of the on-going burn ban. Fires are allowed only in the metal rings provided by the forestry division. And make sure those are extinguished before leaving the site, or heading off to sleep. Bond said all of the fires that are currently burning were caused by some kind of human error.
