AUSTIN, Texas — Drought conditions continue across the Lone Star State, with no measurable rainfall in Central Texas since early September.
According to the most recent drought monitor data, the lack of rainfall has resulted in worsening conditions both locally and statewide. As of Oct. 3, Central Texas saw an 11% increase in areas under the “abnormally dry” category and a 1% increase in the “moderate” category.
Conditions like these often lead local leaders to issue burn bans, preventing outdoor burning to reduce the risk of wildfires. Out of the 254 counties in Texas, nearly half are under burn bans as of Oct. 9, including most of the KVUE viewing area.
The following Central Texas counties are currently under active burn bans: Travis, Williamson, Hays, Caldwell, Bastrop, Fayette, Burnet and Milam.
The only counties in the KVUE viewing area that are not currently under burn bans are Llano, Blanco, Gillespie and Mason.
The Texas A&M Forest Service has a regularly-updated, interactive burn ban map for the whole state. It can be viewed below or here.