Foresters warn that the state is on high alert for wildfires because of the drought, which has caused conditions not seen since 1952, when more than 1 million acres burned in Tennessee.

Almost 31,000 acres burned last year. This year, 40,919 acres have burned.

Mid-October is the traditional start of fire season, but the season really started several weeks ago, said Tim Phelps, a forester with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture.

And the risk will worsen this month. The state is 16 inches below average rainfall for the year, and October typically has the least rain.

Leaves will begin falling soon, creating a fuel source in addition to the dried-up plants from the drought. The ground is so dry that any fire is going to burn hotter and spread more easily, Phelps said.

In District 5, which includes Middle Tennessee, 2,227 of the 5,951 acres that burned this year were from “other” fires.

Arson fires have burned the most ? 23,549 acres.

Burning of debris has started more fires but only 9,722 acres have been scorched.
To obtain a burn permit in Lawrence County you need to call 766-1413. Officials will determine if a permit will be issued.