Due to the current and predicted dry surface fuel conditions that exist throughout Botetourt County and the significant risk for wildfires, Botetourt County has declared a state of local emergency and enacted an emergency ordinance banning open air burning until further notice.
This decision comes after consultation with local and state partners on the dry conditions and predictability of wildfire dangers. Botetourt County, along with much of Southwestern Virginia, is currently at a Wildfire Danger Rating of 3 (High Fire Danger), through this weekend.
Local emergency management officials will continue to monitor the evolving weather conditions and respond accordingly.