his October, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is experiencing one of the driest months on record. The city, known for its variable weather, has seen a significant decrease in rainfall this month. According to CBS 21, the weather has been predominantly warm and dry, with temperatures reaching well into the 70s and even nearing 80 on Halloween.
The record high for Harrisburg on Halloween is 81 degrees, and this year the city came close to tying and possibly breaking that record. The warm and dry weather extended into the evening, making for a comfortable trick-or-treating experience.
However, the dry spell is expected to break towards the end of the week. A cold front is predicted to swing across the region, bringing a few showers and cooling temperatures back into the 60s for the upcoming weekend. Despite the late showers, this October will still go down as one of the driest ever recorded in central Pennsylvania.
DCNR's Bureau of Forestry warning residents of increased risk of wildfires.
Harrisburg, PA – The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is urging Pennsylvanians to exercise caution when burning outdoors to prevent wildfires.
While Pennsylvania saw heavy rain and flooding from summer hurricanes, recent dry conditions, paired with sunny days, unseasonably warm temperatures, and low humidity, have heightened wildfire risk.
Human activity causes 99 percent of wildfires in Pennsylvania, leading to the destruction of thousands of acres of state and private woodlands each year.
Wildfires require specific conditions to ignite:
- An available fuel source, like dried grass or leaves
- Dry conditions, including low relative humidity
- An ignition source – a way for the fire to start
DCNR advises those lighting fires at home or campsites to keep combustible items at least 10 feet away. A rake or shovel, along with water, should be readily available to fully extinguish embers. Officials also recommend checking DCNR's website for elevated fire risk alerts.
DCNR's Bureau of Forestry offers the following safety tips:
- Clear the area around the fire site before lighting.
- Keep fires small and never leave them unattended.
- Consider the conditions: avoid starting fires if it's warm, dry, or windy, and clear the surrounding area of leaves and other combustibles.
- Keep a water source (bucket or hose) and rake nearby to control any escaping embers.
- When finished, douse the fire with water until all ashes are cold to the touch.
Remember, a single spark can ignite a wildfire, risking your safety and that of others. As Smokey Bear says, “Only YOU can prevent wildfires!"
Visit DCNR's website for more information about wildfire prevention in Pennsylvania.
Burn Bans Currently in Place in Pennsylvania
- Bucks County- Sunday, October 27, 2024 through Monday, November 25, 2024.
- Chester County- Sunday, October 27, 2024 through Monday, November 25, 2024.
- Lebanon County- Sunday, October 27, 2024 through Monday, November 25, 2024.
If you plan to burn, be sure to check with your local authorities to confirm burning is permitted.
Local municipalities and county offices may have additional burning restrictions or ban information.