Unseasonably Dry Winter Increases Fire Danger

CalFire is increasing its staff and canceling burn days and planned debris burning in response to increased fire danger because of an unusually dry winter, CalFire officials said.

The agency issued a burning ban for the county in late December that applies to any land outside of Gilroy City limits, according to a statement from the City of Gilroy. The City is also reminding residents of burning restrictions within the city.

"Please be aware that open burning inside of Gilroy City Limits requires a Permit from the Fire Marshal's office and is restricted to only agriculturally zoned property [and] operations," a statement for the City of Gilroy read.

CalFire officials said that over the last month there were an increased number of fires for a typical December, when wildfire activity usually slows as wetter weather sets in across the state.

But despite low temperatures, precipitation has been unusually low, and the statewide water content is at 19 percent of normal. Officials said that the lack of precipitation could potentially cause even greater fire danger in the spring and summer months, as well.

"We will be monitoring the rain levels over the next couple months, as it will be an indicator of the type of fire activity spring and summer will bring," CalFire Chief Ken Pimlott said.

CalFire is also asking residents of California to be extremely cautious not to start a wildfire, particularly on windy days.

Gilroy residents are asked to contact the Fire Marshal's office with further questions at 408 846-0451.

—Bay City News and Gilroy Patch