Kiowa County Sheriff Casey Sheridan announced Monday that the county-wide fire ban has been lifted.

Recent rains in the area, including a storm Friday that knocked out power to parts of the county for nearly 26 hours, have improved conditions. Precipitation amounts in many locations ranged from one-half to one and one-half inches over the weekend.

The ban may be re-introduced later in the year if vegetation dries and fire risk increases.

Burn permits are required and are available by calling the Kiowa County Commissioners’ office at 719-438-5810.

The Sheriff’s Office should be notified before starting any controlled burns.