JACKSON — The Mississippi Forestry Commission is urging residents to avoid any outdoor burning Monday as weather conditions are expected to create a high risk for wildfires across the state.

Low humidity and high winds are forecast, creating what officials describe as conditions “highly favorable for rapid wildfire spread.” The agency is asking Mississippians to voluntarily postpone all outdoor burning, including debris piles, campfires, bonfires, and fire pits.

“Please do your part to protect our homes, forests, and firefighters,” the MFC said in a statement. “Nine out of 10 wildfires are caused by humans.”

The warning comes as MFC data shows that in fiscal year 2023, wildland firefighters responded to and suppressed 1,070 wildfires that burned 19,803 acres statewide. Crews saved 1,541

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