Sunny skies and a high of 71 might make a great day to be outdoors, but wind gusts up to 20 mph make it a bad day to burn.

South Mississippi is under an elevated risk for burning as a result.

Any open burning is discouraged due to increased wind, lower humidity, and recent dry conditions. Fires escape control more easily in these conditions and their containment can be difficult.

Stay safe and check with officials or your local fire department before putting flame to anything outdoors today.