The South can’t seem to catch a break this year between heavy summer rains and recent uncontrollable fires spreading across the region.

Pearl River County has been spared the worst of these extreme natural disasters, but some minor effects have still been felt throughout the year.

Prior to heavy rains early this week, a burn ban was in effect in the county, and for good reason. Several brush fires, including one off the Interstate, burned small portions of Pearl River County.

It’s not hard to imagine what would have happened if local fire departments weren’t able to extinguish those fires quickly.

After recent rains, the burn ban has finally been lifted, a huge relief for many county residents looking to safely celebrate the fall season with backyard bonfires.

However, residents should still be cautious when lighting fires or using flammable items.

While we’re getting some relief in Pearl River County, our neighbors to the east and north have been inundated with severe wildfires and storms.

Five people have reportedly been killed by tornadoes in Alabama and Tennessee, while fires have killed several people and has damaged large areas of the popular tourist town of Gatlinburg, Tenn. 

The ever-generous residents of this county have begun collecting donations for those affected by these tragedies.

While we’re celebrating rains, cooler weather and the lifting of the burn ban here, it’s important to remember that others aren’t as fortunate.

Thousands of homes have been damaged and first responders are working around the clock to save as much as possible.

With the Christmas season upon us, we should remember to be kind to our neighbors, spread a little cheer and help them as best we can to ensure they, too, have a joyful holiday.