A statewide Fire Alert is in effect across Alabama as worsening drought conditions and low relative humidity continue to elevate wildfire risk, State Forester Rick Oates announced in a release from the Alabama Forestry Commission.

The alert follows a sharp increase in wildfire activity, including 50 fires over the past weekend that burned more than 2,300 acres of forestland. Among the largest were a 500-acre blaze in Mobile County, a 412-acre fire in Coosa County, a 382-acre fire in Choctaw County, a 260-acre fire in Washington County and a 105-acre fire in Escambia County.

Over the past 30 days, 387 wildfires have scorched approximately 15,850 acres statewide, underscoring the growing threat posed by dry conditions and limited rainfall.

“With no measurable rain in sight, the continued extremely dry conditions create dangerous wildfire behavior,” Oates said in the release. “These conditions create the potential for fires to escape easily and spread rapidly, taking longer and more of the agency’s firefighting resources to contain. Fast-moving wildfires not only destroy property and forests but also threaten the lives of citizens and endanger firefighters.”

Under the Fire Alert, outdoor burning permits are restricted to Certified Prescribed Burn Managers. Unauthorized burning of fields, grasslands or woodlands without a permit may result in prosecution for a Class B misdemeanor.

The alert will remain in place until it is rescinded by the State Forester, with at least an initial review set for Monday, April 20.

The Alabama Forestry Commission, the state agency responsible for protecting forest resources and public safety, continues to monitor conditions and coordinate response efforts. Residents are urged to remain cautious and report any wildfire activity immediately by calling (800) 392-5679.

Additional information on wildfire conditions and forestry services is available through local Alabama Forestry Commission offices or online at www.forestry.alabama.gov.