STEUBEN COUNTY, N.Y. (WBNG) -- On Wednesday, Steuben County Manager Jack Wheeler issued a burn ban for the county due to a heightened risk of wildfires.

The burn ban in Steuben County prohibits all open-burning and recreational outdoor fires. According to Wheeler, the combination of warm temperatures, low humidity, and winds has escalated the fire risk.

The primary concern is unprotected grass, timber and dry brush areas. Along with spring, unpredictable, gusty winds can quickly spread fires to untouched brush and grass, posing a serious threat to lives and property.

The burn ban prohibits outdoor burning in Steuben County starting at noon on March 12 and will last until 11:59 a.m. on March 17, when the executive order expires.

The New York State Burn Ban will take effect on Sunday, March 16, 2025, and remain in place until May 15, 2025.

open-burning and recreational outdoor fires. According to Wheeler, the combination of warm temperatures, low humidity,