By MDA Staff Writer | October 26, 2026
MISSISSIPPI DELTA — Residents across the Mississippi Delta are being urged to exercise caution as dry weather and elevated wildfire danger continue to affect communities throughout the state.
The Mississippi Forestry Commission’s current burn-ban listing includes numerous Delta counties, with restrictions intended to reduce the risk of fires spreading through fields, wooded areas and residential neighborhoods.
Among the counties listed are Washington, Sunflower, Sharkey, Quitman, Tallahatchie, Holmes, Yazoo, Humphreys and Yalobusha.
Why the Restrictions Matter
Dry vegetation can ignite quickly when exposed to sparks, unattended flames or burning debris.
Strong winds can then spread flames beyond the original burn area.
Mississippi Forestry Commission officials reported last week that 55 counties were under burn bans at that time.
The agency also reported approximately 1,000 wildfires statewide since July 1, with crews responding to dozens of incidents daily during the recent dry period.
What Residents Need to Know
Burn bans generally prohibit outdoor burning that produces open flames or embers.
Restricted activities can include burning leaves, brush, household debris, campfires and other outdoor fires.
Some counties allow specific exemptions for authorized agricultural, forestry or emergency activities.
Those exemptions vary by county and should not be assumed to apply everywhere.
The Forestry Commission’s published list identifies each county’s restriction dates and approved exemptions.
Delta Counties Under Restrictions
The state listing reviewed October 27 includes:
| County | Listed ban end date |
|---|---|
| Washington | November 13 |
| Sunflower | November 16 |
| Sharkey | November 19 |
| Quitman | November 16 |
| Tallahatchie | October 31 |
| Holmes | November 15 |
| Yazoo | November 15 |
| Humphreys | November 20 |
| Yalobusha | November 30 |
These dates may change if restrictions are extended or lifted.
Protecting Homes and Communities
Officials encourage residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor burning, secure trailer chains that might produce sparks and exercise caution when operating machinery near dry vegetation.
Violating an applicable burn ban can result in a fine of $100 to $500.
Anyone who discovers an active wildfire should call 911.
With dry conditions continuing, residents are encouraged to check current county restrictions before undertaking any activity involving outdoor flames.
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Primary source: Mississippi Forestry Commission — Official Burn Ban List