CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The Albemarle County Fire Marshal’s Office issued an open-air burn ban Thursday, following the Nation Weather Service’s decision to place the area under a “critical or near critical fire danger.”

According to an Albemarle Fire Rescue advisory, the burn ban “will remain in place until at least 4 p.m. Sunday, April 19”.

“The decision to issue the open-air burn ban has been made in response to the National Weather Service’s (NWS) alert announcing elevated fire risk for Albemarle County, after careful consideration of current weather conditions, and in accordance with Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code Section 307.1.1 and Albemarle County Code Section 6-404,” the release said.

By definition, according to the release, “Open-air burning is the burning of any matter in such a manner that the products resulting from combustion are emitted directly into the atmosphere without passing through a stack, duct, or chimney.”

The National Weather Service issued “a critical or near critical fire weather conditions” advisory early Thursday morning until 8 p.m.

According to the NWS, “The combination of 10-hour fuel moistures around 9 percent, relative humidities around 25 percent, and wind gusts of 20 to 25 mph will lead to an increased risk for the rapid spread of wildfires this (Thursday) afternoon.”

“Residents and visitors are urged to properly dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and any other flammable items in appropriate containers.”

The advisory said, “Additionally, exercise caution if operating any equipment that could create sparks, and keep vehicles off of dry
grass.”

“Most dry grasses, dead leaves, and other tree litter could easily ignite and spread fire quickly.”

The NWS statement urged residents to obey local burn bans, and to know Virginia’s 4 p.m. burning law is in effect through April 30.

According to the Virginia Department of Forestry, “The 4 p.m. Burning Law bans open-air burning prior to 4 p.m. if the fire is within 300 feet of the woods or dry grass which could carry fire to the woods.”

“Burning is allowed between 4 p.m. and midnight as long as the burner takes proper precautions and attends the fire at all times.”

However, Albemarle County has now eliminated that permissive burning time.

Greene County Wednesday issued a burn ban until further notice.