GADSDEN COUNTY, Fla. — We're getting a closer look at the reason behind the state of emergency in Gadsden County.
As you heard Monday on WTXL ABC 27, county leaders declared the emergency following two wildfires. One of those grew to more than 25 acres.
Like many things that have happened over the past five months, the problem traces back to Hurricane Michael and Gadsden County leaders want people to be prepared and to help watch out for their neighbors.
Five months ago, Gadsden County was ravaged by Hurricane Michael, leaving tons of broken trees and debris in its wake.
"Michael hadn't left us. We're very appreciative of the governor's office and our senators and representatives they're working very hard, but as you can see here the destruction is still on the ground, it's still Michael," said Major Shawn Wood, Gadsden County Emergency Management Director.
County leaders declared a seven day state of emergency because the air is dry, temperatures have increased, and the debris left behind by the hurricane is still here.
"With the residue of Hurricane Michael all around us, it is important that we are very cautious," said Gadsden County Commissioner Sherrie Taylor.
Even though the county is not under a burn ban, you will need a permit if you want to burn debris.
"When you get ready to do a fire, no longer can you just do it in your backyard and see if you can control it yourself, but you need to notify the forestry," said Taylor. "There is no cost, there is no sanction on it. You have a right to burn, but its a protection measure that we are trying to put out there in the community."
Officials say they are not trying to scare people, but even a spark could be devastating to the county.
Major Wood says even though there is a possibility of rain Tuesday evening, that may not do much to change Gadsden County's outlook.
County leaders plan to keep the emergency declaration in place until the Florida Department of Forestry says it's safe.
