The Memorial Day weekend has been a popular time for campers and hikers to visit the Coronado National forest in southern Arizona. But, with no rain, warm weather, and the potential for strong winds, forest officials are warning those conditions could help increase the potential for wildfires.
Heidi Schewel, spokeswoman for Coronado National Forest, said brush and other fuels in the area are dry and extremely flammable. So, it may not be a great time or place to make s’mores.
“We’ve been seeing a lot of windy days, and wind is a factor when it comes to fire spread. So, we’re asking people if it’s windy and you really don’t need a fire, don’t build one if you don’t have to,” she said.
Schewel warned discarded cigarettes and chains dragging off cars also easily create dangerous sparks.
Five wildfires have been recorded in the Coronado National Forest since May. Some of those have been caused by lightening.
