White County Placed Under Burn Ban Amid Dangerous Fire Conditions

White County, Arkansas — White County is now under an official burn ban following an order issued by White County Judge Lisa Brown, citing hazardous fire conditions across the county.

According to the court order, a prolonged lack of substantial rainfall combined with high winds and low humidity levels has created an elevated risk of wildfires throughout White County, particularly in unincorporated areas. County officials determined that these conditions pose a significant threat to life and property, prompting the emergency action.

The burn ban takes effect at 8:00 a.m. on January 14, 2026, and will remain in place until further notice or until the order is officially lifted. During this time, all outdoor burning is strictly prohibited.

Enforcement of the burn ban will be carried out by the White County Sheriff’s Department, the Chief Fire Officials of the various fire districts, the White County Office of Emergency Services, and the White County Forestry Service.

County officials urge residents to take the ban seriously, noting that even small fires can quickly spread under current conditions. Violations of the burn ban may result in fines or other penalties, and residents are encouraged to report any illegal burning or suspicious fire activity to local authorities.

The burn ban was formally ordered on January 14, 2026, and will remain in effect until weather conditions improve and the risk of fire subsides.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official county updates and to exercise extreme caution to help prevent wildfires during this period.