BROOKHAVEN — People might notice a hint of smoke in the air this weekend from brush fires south of I-20. The dry heat and abnormally dry spell Southwest Mississippi is in has made burning conditions dangerous.

A grass fire raged in Hancock County yesterday just one of many fires throughout the state.

Mississippi Forestry Commission has yet to place Lincoln or Copiah County in a burn ban but burn bans are in effect for nearby Adams, Lawerence, Walthall, Covington, Amite and Jefferson Davis Counties. NWS Jackson warns the conditions are possible for wildfires and urge caution if burning.

People should heed local burn bans, don’t let trailer chains drag on the ground and dispose of cigarette butts properly. All it takes is one spark for a fire to get started.

Heat stress is another major concern this weekend. NWS Jackson warns of extreme heat stress risk. Heat stroke is imminent with prolonged activity outside. The lows this weekend will be between 78 to 80 degrees which does not provide much cooling. Stay hydrated and take breaks often if working outside.