County Lifts Burn Ban Temporarily

Comal County Judge Sherman Krause lifted the outdoor burn ban on Friday, but Fire Marshal Kory Klabunde warned this action could prove temporary.

On Friday the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI), which measures soil dryness, dropped to just above 500, the threshold at which the burn bans are typically implemented.

As of 10 a.m., it had fallen to 508 after several days of rain showers.

“Although the county hasn’t received the kind of soaking rain we need to saturate the ground, the surface and vegetation are wet enough to allow outdoor burning for a short while,” said Comal County Fire Marshal Kory Klabunde. “However, once the clouds clear, we expect things to dry out quickly.”

Commissioners Court will consider reimplementing the ban at its meeting on Thursday.

Commissioners Court in 2019 first enacted the ban on July 26, lifted it on Oct. 25, and reimplemented it on Dec. 6.

On Facebook, Klabunde warned on Facebook residents they will be held accountable for any fires that burn out of control.

“Please be very cautious and remain with any fire until it is completely out,” he said. “All Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) burn rules shall be followed.

“Again, the situation could change quickly and please be very cautious with any fire you light. Also remember, you are responsible for any fire you light. If your fire causes any injury or damage to someone’s building you could be charged with arson.

“Stay safe and please contact our office with any questions.”