The Bristol Tennessee Fire Department is issuing a burn ban notice effective immediately due to the passage of Hurricane Matthew’s expected effect on the southern Appalachian Mountains region.
The National Interagency Coordination Center (NICC) has released an advisory based on the effect of subsidence area around Hurricane Matthew that is taking place along the east coast. The area of subsidence associated with the hurricane will exacerbate the already dry environment of the Bristol area. Humidity values are forecast to drop along with a high likelihood of gusty winds. Any fire in this area will be very resistant to control efforts. Fire intensities will be higher than normal which will make it difficult for firefighters to combat. Local fire departments in the subsidence area have been asked to look for ways to minimize fire in what is forecast to be a period of high fire danger. “Based on the information provided us by the NICC we are immediately issuing a burn ban that will be in place until further notice,” said Jack Spurgeon, Bristol Fire Department’s Asst. Chief.
More information contact Chief Spurgeon via email at [email protected] or by phone at 423-989-5701.