October is historically the best weather month of the year in Mississippi, unless we need rain.

And that is the dilemma Oxford and the region face this year since the 15-day forecast has only sunny skies and no rain predicted for North Mississippi.

The latest U.S. drought monitor, updated the last week of September, reveals that most of Lafayette (including Oxford), Panola and Yalobusha Counties are now in a state of severe drought, while other nearby areas are experiencing moderate drought.

That’s why the Lafayette County Supervisors have issued a burn ban from now until at least the first week of November. The area’s dry conditions make the burn ban necessary for the protection of land and property.

A burn ban means residents are not allowed to burn outdoor debris. They will face a fine of up to $500 if they burn ban is violated.

Almost a dozen other Mississippi counties in Mississippi have enacted burn bans so far this fall.  But according to the drought monitor, no area in the region is facing the level of drought that we are facing.

And no rain relief is in sight.