Harris County postpones decision to lift burn ban

Harris County has decided to postpone lifting the burn ban due to the elevated drought index that still exists in the area.

"This is a proactive step to protect citizens and property," Fire Marshal Mike Montgomery said in a press release. "Even though the passage of cold fronts has brought needed rainfall and the number of fires is lower, the amount of dead vegetation and dry air behind each front creates uncertainty about the risk of outdoor fires."

Activities such as outdoor cooking, fires or smoking in county parks will continue to be prohibited. The drought index is currently around 524; 10 years ago it was at 247 for the same time of year.

The county has been under a burn ban since April 19 and it has seen record-high numbers for the drought index, temperatures and fires.

A full release from the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office is available here.