A welcome rain Saturday in Southwest Arkansas was desperately needed to curb the risk of wildfire, and it was enough that County Judge Troy Tucker decided to lift the burn ban for Clark County.

Tucker made the call at about 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 30, following several weeks of dry and/or windy conditions that made it dangerous to burn. The Arkansas Forestry Commission has listed Clark County and five others in south central Arkansas as having a moderate wildfire risk, while 2/3 of the state remains under a high wildfire risk. Other counties whose risk was lessened this weekend include Dallas, Hot Spring, Grant, Garland and Saline.

Officials still warn that fires can still start accidentally and residents should use caution. After announcing the burn ban had been lifted, Tate Chanler, director of Clark County’s Office of Emergency Management, urged Gurdon, Amity, Caddo Valley or county residents to notify the Clark County Sheriff’s Office prior to burning. That office can be reached at 870-246-2222. Arkadelphia residents, too, should notify the Arkadelphia Fire Department by calling 870-246-9354 prior to burning.