Burn restrictions issued in Scott, Union counties

Two local counties instituted burn bans Tuesday in response to drought and forecast high temperatures and low humidity.

In Union County, Ill., commissioners issued a ban on all open burning due to dry conditions, with violators subject to fines, according to a news release from the county's prosecutor.

In Scott County, the county commission cited high temperatures, low humidity, dry ground covering, the possibility of increasing winds and lack of precipitation in weather forecasts in passing a burn ban Tuesday morning.

According to a news release, people within the county are encouraged to postpone open outdoor burning, including agricultural field fires and wood lot fires, until the danger decreases significantly. The commission is asking that campers and hunters be careful, as well. The commission also said the use of fireworks is not recommended during these dry conditions.

Cape Girardeau County authorities issued a no-burn order Monday, and encouraged people not to use fireworks while dry conditions persist.