Maine’s drought and gusty winds fuel high fire danger [Video]

Maine is facing worsening drought conditions, and combined with gusty winds, this has created a high fire danger across the state. While burning is prohibited during periods of high fire risk, everyday activities can unintentionally spark a blaze. Maine Forest Rangers are urging residents to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of igniting a fire, warning that even small actions can add fuel to a potentially catastrophic situation.On Thursday, the U.S. Drought Monitor issued a report showing that more than 60 percent of Maine is now in drought. Over 64 percent of the state is classified as experiencing a moderate drought, which is a 33 percent increase from just a week ago. Some areas, including parts of southern York County, are facing severe drought conditions, though this affects less than 1 percent of the state’s total area.On Thursday afternoon, Maine Forest Rangers responded to a fire in Wales, near …