By Billy Davis

Unincorporated areas in Panola County are now under a countywide burn ban until further notice.

The burn ban began Thursday.

The ban includes burning of trash, leaves or other materials as well as burning agricultural land.

Farmers who need to burn should call Panola County Emergency Management to receive permission. The office’s number is 563-6245.

The ban effectively includes most of the county, since Batesville, Sardis, and Como are already operating with burn bans in place.

Firefighters across the county have fought more than 25 grass fires since September 1, said Daniel Cole, Panola EMA director.

He said the fires have destroyed one structure, an abandoned house, and several automobiles.

The culprit, of course, is dry weather. Rain last fell during the week of Labor Day.

The weather forecast for the weekend shows slim chances for thunderstorms and showers through the weekend.