By Sam Parsons

6 counties in the area have now enacted burn bans.

In light of windy conditions that have been observed in the area, the counties of Jasper, Marion, Monroe, Poweshiek, and Wapello, as well as the Barnes City Fire District in Mahaska County, have all enacted burn bans that are in effect until further notice. 

Under Iowa Code, burn bans prohibit open burns. They do not prohibit supervised, controlled burns for which a permit has been issued by the fire chief of the fire district where the burn will take place, or the use of outdoor fireplaces or barbecue grills.

Burn ban violations are simple misdemeanors.