Matagorda County officials have put a county-wide burn ban in place due to heat and drought, and it applies to both city neighborhoods and rural areas. The ban blocks all outdoor burning with no exceptions and could bring fines if ignored. Local emergency officials say the dry heat has pushed wildfire risk across Southeast Texas sharply higher and the ban will stay in place until a good rain arrives. Residents are urged to avoid sparks, report smoke fast, and watch for county updates.