As cooler temperatures move into Mississippi, a lack of rainfall has prompted burn bans in 47 of the state’s 82 counties.
The Mississippi Forestry Commission updated its list of affected counties Tuesday morning. Outdoor burning is prohibited in those areas, including campfires, fire pits, debris burning and field burning. Grilling is still allowed when done safely on gas or charcoal grills.
Anyone caught violating a burn ban could face a misdemeanor fine of up to $500, according to the Forestry Commission.
🚨 BURN BAN UPDATE 🚨
47 Mississippi counties are now under an active burn ban.
🚫 NO outdoor burning permitted: campfires, fire pits, debris/field burning, burn barrels.
🚫 Misdemeanor fine: up to $500
✅ Gas/charcoal grills allowed🔗 https://t.co/hBMsLY7hXE
#BurnBan https://t.co/ZXHiKxJwTe
— MS Forestry Commission (@MSForestryComm) October 20, 2026
According to the National Weather Service’s three-day outlook, no precipitation is expected anywhere in Mississippi from Tuesday through Thursday. Wind gusts approaching 20 mph in some areas could further increase the risk of fires spreading.