Hays Co burn ban may return soon

As temperatures increase, Hays Co. Fire Marshal recommends burning debris ahead of possible burn ban

Hays County Fire Marshal Mark Chambers is encouraging county residents who have debris they need to burn to plan to do so within the next few weeks.

“As of July 16, the drought index for Hays County was 343,” Chambers said. “Over the last few weeks, the index has started to increase due to lack of rain, higher temperatures and constant southerly winds, sometimes as much as 30 points a day. Our 14-day drought index is estimated to be 457. While by statute we can’t impose a burn ban until the drought index hits 575, we are definitely heading in that direction.”