MIDWAY, Fla. (WTXL) — Did you know that the month of March was abnormally dry and hot?
For example, in Tallahassee, we should see close to 6 inches of rain during March alone.
But, the Tallahassee International Airport measured just over two inches last month. That's almost three inches and three quarters lower to where we should be for this time of year.
This was also the second hottest March on Tallahassee record. Only 1907 was hotter.
When you add both ingredients together, the lack of rain and a hot March, that increases the potential for wildfires to spread when the conditions are right.
In fact, almost all of Florida is seeing abnormally dry conditions, including right here in the Big Bend Area.
Now, crews are tracking and battling wildfires mostly in Central Florida and even some sparking up here in Northern Florida. The number of wildfires could rise as we head into our drier months of April and May.
So what can you do to prevent fires from spreading?
The Florida Forest Service suggests clearing the soil around the pile, monitoring the fire at all times, and have a hose, rake and shovel ready to go. Also, know your local government rules when it comes to starting a fire.
