The action was prompted by extremely dry weather conditions, numerous outbreaks of wildfires and high levels of ozone. The Department's Division of Forestry issues more than 118,000 burning authorizations annually. The moratorium on authorizations, which also applies to the Division of Forestry's prescribed burning program will remain in effect until further notice. The unusually dry conditions are increasing the danger of fires getting out of control.
Firefighters continue to battle blazes across the state.
Forty eight new fires started on May 19 alone and half of these fires resulted from lightning storms. We intend to do our part to ensure the safety of the public and the environment. Measurements of air quality across the state show the existence of ozone at ground level well above acceptable levels. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has issued a statewide air pollution advisory and is asking citizens to take steps to reduce the higher ozone readings. As soon as conditions allow, we will notify the public when the authorization moratorium is lifted.