GADSDEN COUNTY, Fla. — A state of emergency has been issued in Gadsden County due to wildfire risks.
During an emergency meeting on Monday, the Gadsden County Board of County Commissioners declared Gadsden County to be in a state of emergency due to the risk of wildfires, particularly with increased temperatures and decreased moisture and precipitation.
The declaration comes following two wildfires that occurred in Gadsden County, one reaching over 25 acres. Over 59,000 acres of timber is considered extremely damaged while approximately 184,000 acres is considered moderately damaged in Gadsden County by the Florida Department of Forestry.
Gadsden County Emergency Management Officials consider the increased risk an existing condition following vegetative debris left by Hurricane Michael. While Gadsden County is not under a burn ban, the Florida Department of Forestry requires a burning authorization to burn debris larger than an 8x8 pile.
The duration of the state of emergency declared locally is limited to seven days, but may be extended as necessary.
