Much-needed rainfall in eastern Kentucky is carrying a beneficial impact that is two-fold. It’s helping to snuff out woodland and brush fires in the Appalachian region and putting a dent in relieving drought readings. Michael Brown is the fire chief in Prestonsburg. Brown also serves as a district vice president for fire chiefs. He said a big benefit of this type of rainfall is in preventing spread.
“The fire can’t grow cause once its..The rain will lessen the fire load and it will also aid in putting the fire out,” said Brown.
Brown said wildland fires have been reported in counties all around Floyd County, but few near Prestonsburg.
The fire chief noted that Appalachian residents need to be vigilant when it comes to fire prevention.
“We’re seeing that someone has gone and started a fire in a barrel that they think is ok and they go down to the grocery store or wherever and they leave it unattended and once it gets away from them, it’s too late,” said Brown.
John Pelton with the Jackson National Weather Service Office said a soaking rain is best to lessen fire activity. Still, Pelton said larger logs can hold heat longer. The meteorologist noted this rain event will put a dent in drought conditions, but additional rainfall would help to remove all drought readings. Pelton added November’s average rainfall is about three and a half inches. Before this weather event, many areas were measuring rainfall in the hundreds of an inch.
Jackson Meteorologist John Pelton says additional rainfall in the coming weeks would be of benefit to eradicate this type of fire threat. Pelton says November’s average rainfall is about three and a half inches. Before this weather event, many areas were measuring rainfall in the hundreds of an inch.
