JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – Ten counties in Mississippi are under burn bans following hot and dry weather conditions. Most of those counties are in southwest Mississippi.

The Mississippi Forestry Commission said it sees an increase in wildfires in August.

In July, the organization recorded 60 fires. In August, that number spiked to 154.

MFC sees 20 fires a day.

Officials urge caution

Officials with MFC are urging residents to avoid burning all items until weather conditions improve.

“Little things that we don’t even think about can start a wildfire like burning debris, dragging chains behind a vehicle or using mechanical equipment that can start a spark, those things can contribute to wildfires so we got to be mindful especially right now,” said Shannon Coker, communications director for the Mississippi Forestry Commission.

More bans possible

The commission said it expects more burn bans to continue if the weather remains dry.

MFC recommends all counties use extra caution with equipment that can produce fire near trees.

The organization said if conditions are questionable, residents should always wait to burn.

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