The Alabama Forestry Commission has issued a statewide Fire Alert effective immediately.

While under a Fire Alert, permits for outdoor burning will be restricted. Anyone who burns a field, grassland or woodland without a burn permit can be subject to prosecution for committing a Class B misdemeanor.

This burning restriction is being issued because of the current drought situation, continued lack of precipitation, and high probability of fuel ignition, according to the AFC. Weather predictions for the weekend include relative humidities under 20 percent and windy conditions with 15-30 mile-per-hour gusts in areas.

With this extremely dry weather, any fire can quickly spread out of control, not only resulting in damage to forests but also threatening lives and destroying property.

The alert will remain in effect until rescinded by the state forester, at which time conditions will have changed sufficiently to reduce the occurrence and frequency of wildfires.

To report a wildfire, call the Alabama Forestry Commission at 800-392-5679.

For more information on the current wildfire situation in the state or any other forestry-related issues, contact the local AFC office or visit the agency website at www.forestry.alabama.gov/Pages/Fire/Totals.aspx.

The Alabama Forestry Commission is the state agency committed to protecting Alabama’s invaluable forest assets as well as its citizens.