Forestry crews responded across Arkansas on Saturday to battle 42 wildfires in a single day, but meteorologists say a wetter week ahead could begin bringing relief to a state that has been under significant fire stress.
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture reported Saturday that crews remained actively engaged at 20 fires, including two large blazes each exceeding 300 acres. The heaviest activity was concentrated in north-central and northeast Arkansas.
Near the small Delta community of Roe in Monroe County, a 55-acre wildfire burned to the edge of the local airport before crews moved in to contain it. Multiple homes in the area were successfully protected, officials said.
In Cave City, Mayor Jonas Anderson posted on social media Sunday that Cave City Fire and Rescue had been called out multiple times over the weekend.
The weekend fires came amid persistent drought conditions in Arkansas.
The National Weather Service office in Little Rock noted drought conditions as an ongoing concern heading into the new week, but the forecast offers some encouragement. Rain is expected Sunday night into Monday morning, with an 80% chance of showers overnight and a 60% chance continuing into Monday.
That moisture, however, may only briefly interrupt elevated fire conditions.
Tuesday is forecast to be mostly sunny with a high near 77 degrees and south winds of 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph, according to the National Weather Service. Fire officials warn that those conditions can rapidly accelerate the spread of any new ignitions.
More substantial rainfall is not expected until mid-to-late week, when showers and thunderstorms become likely Wednesday night through Thursday, with precipitation chances reaching 70%.
“Thanks to rapid response, strong coordination, and the dedication of our teams, containment efforts are progressing across Arkansas,” the Department of Agriculture said in a statement.
Officials nonetheless urged residents to stay alert and comply with local burn bans, cautioning that fire danger remains real even as conditions gradually improve.
Arkansans can view current fire conditions in their area by clicking here.
Images: Arkansas Department of Agriculture
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