Outdoor Fires Now Permitted with Caution
Corpus Christi Burn Ban restrictions have officially been lifted as of Monday, following a decision by Nueces County Judge Connie Scott. Residents now have the green light to resume outdoor burning activities, including beach bonfires, campfires, and brush clearing. The move comes after recent rainfall eased the drought conditions that had increased wildfire risk in the region.
County emergency officials made the decision after weeks of monitoring weather patterns and assessing fire danger. Initially put in place due to persistent dry and windy conditions, the burn ban remained active until April 13.
Dry Weather Prompted Widespread Restrictions
Earlier this year, South Texas faced significant fire threats. During winter and early spring, the region experienced periods of dry and windy weather, significantly increasing the risk of wildfires. As a proactive measure, Nueces County implemented the burn ban, joining other jurisdictions in South Texas that also issued burn bans.
On March 7, Corpus Christi preemptively implemented its burn ban across public beaches and parks to minimize the fire danger before spring break. That particular ban expired on March 23.
Rainfall Helps Improve Conditions
The decision to lift the county’s ban was guided by data from the Keetch Byram Drought Index (KBDI), a tool used to estimate soil moisture and potential wildfire risk. According to county officials, the current index reading is 327—well below the 500 threshold that typically triggers burn bans in Texas.
When the county imposed the ban, the KBDI had spiked to 650, indicating severe drought conditions. Since then, rainfall across the region has significantly reduced the index. On March 27, up to 3 inches of rain fell in several coastal cities within and beyond the local watershed. This precipitation helped stabilize soil moisture levels and lower fire danger.
Wildfires Still a Recent Memory
Despite the improved conditions, officials are urging the public not to let their guard down. Wildfires have ravaged parts of Nueces County, San Patricio County, and surrounding South Texas communities in recent months. Dry vegetation and wind gusts fueled fast-moving fires, prompting evacuations and emergency responses.
Although the current fire risk has decreased, officials caution that it could rise again quickly if the area experiences another dry spell.
County Urges Safe and Responsible Burning
Emergency Management Coordinator Dee Hawkins emphasized that residents must follow strict safety protocols while outdoor burning is again allowed.
“Right now, conditions are such that we can lift it so people can do burns if necessary,” Hawkins said. “We just want them to be responsible.”
To that end, residents planning any outdoor burn should:
- Ensure they have a reliable water source nearby.
- Use fire containment tools and equipment to prevent spreading.
- Avoid burning near structures, such as wooden fences, buildings, or thick brush.
- Never leave a fire unattended, and extinguish all flames completely by nightfall.
Local Resources Available for Assistance
If anyone has questions about burn safety or regulations, the Corpus Christi Fire Department encourages residents to call 361-826-CITY (2489). Additionally, local emergency service districts and rural fire departments can provide guidance on safe burning practices.
Looking Ahead
While the rain has provided temporary relief, the county is staying vigilant. Officials say they may reimplement the burn ban if dry conditions return to protect lives and property.
As always, public cooperation is critical in preventing wildfires. Residents can help keep South Texas safe through the remainder of the dry season by taking simple precautions and staying informed.