As drought conditions spread, Middle Tennessee authorities issue burn bans. Here's where

As drought conditions continue to creep across Middle Tennessee, with more counties showing dry conditions, local authorities have started issuing burn bans to curb the risk of devastating fires.

Last week, 53% of the Middle Tennessee area was showing some level of drought. As of Thursday, nearly 82% is under a drought condition.

All of Davidson County is now listed under abnormally dry conditions, the first level of drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

Cheatham, Rutherford, Robertson, Sumner, Montgomery and the western part of Wilson counties are also listed under abnormally dry conditions. Most of Williamson County is under the same condition except for the southern most edge of the county, which is listed under a moderate drought.

Lewis County remains in an extreme drought. Areas in a severe drought are at risk of crop or pasture loss, fires, water shortages and restrictions, according to the National Weather Service.

Burn bans across Middle Tennessee

Several local authorities issued burn bans pending "significant rainfall."

The National Weather Service said a few "strong to marginally severe storms" are possible Saturday, with more rain chances next week.

For now, burn bans remain in place for the following areas:

• Brentwood
• Dickson
• Gallatin
• Hendersonville
• Rutherford County, including separate city-issued bans for Murfreesboro and La Vergne

Nashville is always under a burn ban per a city ordinance, the fire department said.

"This important rule is in place to help keep our community safe and reduce fire risks," the department said on Facebook.

What does a burn ban mean?

A burn ban means municipalities and county officials won't issue permits for burning of brush or other trash.

Those found in violation of the ban, or who start fires that become uncontrollable, could face criminal charges for violating the ban.

Bans restrict:

• Open air burning
• Burning of brush or leaves
• Burning of construction debris
• Burning of fields
• Campfires and burn barrels

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: As drought conditions spread, Middle Tennessee authorities issue burn bans. Here's where