ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Western New York's ongoing drought is raising fire concerns as parched grass, brush and wooded areas become more vulnerable to flames. Even with rain in the forecast, experts say it won't be enough to ease the dry conditions or lower the fire danger instantly.

Forest Ranger Scott Jackson, Fire Management Officer with the NYS DEC, said rangers have been called to several fires since early August. Many of them, he said, start from routine outdoor activities that turn dangerous in dry weather.

"We have had several fires since August 1st, and a lot of them started by campfires that were either left unattended or improperly extinguished. And it has been extremely dry for this time of the year," Jackson said.

The drought not only makes fires easier to start. It also m

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