MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. — Martin County Fire Rescue and St. Lucie County Fire District issued burn bans Friday, effectively immediately.
The ban comes after extremely dry conditions in the area led to brush fires in Martin, St. Lucie and Palm Beach counties. Late last week, fire rescue contained brush fires in Martin County. A fire that started in the Stuart West community was reportedly started by an ember from a previous brush fire. Several homes were also evacuated.
According to Martin County Fire Rescue, the ban applies to "burning of yard trash and vegetation, as well as other types of fires such as campfires, bonfires, and burn barrels. The use of fireworks is also prohibited." Grills are allowed, as long as they are away from wooded areas.
Region Martin County
2 brush fires break out in Palm City
The St. Lucie County burn ban prohibits similar activities as the Martin County ban, including campfires, bonfires and outdoor fireplaces.
While thunderstorms are expected this weekend in parts of Palm Beach County, the threat of lightning strikes also has residents worried. On Thursday evening, at least six lighting strikes were reported across the Treasure Coast.