Rain brings end to area burn bans

Area residents can once again enjoy a bonfire in the backyard.

London, Middlesex County, and Elgin County have all ended temporary outdoor burn bans. The restrictions had been in place since June 5 due to a lack of wet weather that had made conditions extremely dry.

In the city and Middlesex, large outdoor fires were prohibited but small recreational fires were still allowed. Elgin, which includes all townships and municipalities within the county, as well as St. Thomas and Aylmer, banned all open-air fires.

Both London and Middlesex ended the ban on Thursday afternoon, while Elgin decided the restrictions were no longer needed on Wednesday afternoon.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience and adherence to this important fire ban over the last week,” Elgin County officials said.

After nearly a month without any significant rainfall, the skies opened up on Sunday and again over the next several days providing a much needed drink for the parched earth.

Anyone planning on having an outdoor fire is still required to follow Open Air Burning bylaws.

Read original story from London Ontario – BlackburnNews.com