Three Rivers Fire Department Warns Against Burning Storm Debris

Authorities say yard waste disposal can lead to uncontrolled wildfires after recent tornado.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Three Rivers Fire Department is advising residents not to burn brush, leaves, and other yard waste following a recent tornado that caused significant damage in the area. The department warns that burning debris can easily lead to uncontrolled wildfires, especially with dry conditions and high winds. Instead, residents are encouraged to safely dispose of organic storm debris at the Three Rivers Public Services building.

Why it matters

Wildfires pose a serious threat to public safety, property, and the environment, especially in the aftermath of a severe storm when vegetation is already dry and damaged. The fire department's warning aims to prevent potentially devastating fires from starting due to improper debris disposal.

The details

After an EF-2 tornado struck Three Rivers on Friday, the city's fire department is cautioning residents against burning yard waste and other organic debris left behind. The department explains that while burning may seem like a quick solution, it can actually lead to uncontrolled fires spreading rapidly through dry grass, leaves, and other vegetation. Firefighters warn that many wildfires are caused by the burning of storm cleanup materials, and with winds potentially picking up, the risk is even greater. Instead, the fire department is advising residents to safely dispose of their storm debris at the Three Rivers Public Services building.

  • The tornado struck Three Rivers on Friday.
  • The fire department issued the warning on Monday, March 9, 2026.

The players

Three Rivers Fire Department

The local fire department serving the city of Three Rivers, Michigan, which is warning residents about the dangers of burning storm debris.

Three Rivers Public Services

The city department that is accepting organic storm debris from Three Rivers residents for safe disposal.

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What they’re saying

“Burning brush and yard waste after a storm may seem like a quick and easy way to get rid of debris, but it can actually lead to uncontrolled fires caused by dry grass, leaves, and vegetation left over from winter.”

— Three Rivers Fire Department (wwmt.com)

What’s next

The Three Rivers Fire Department is urging residents to properly dispose of storm debris at the Public Services building to prevent the risk of wildfires.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of responsible debris disposal after severe weather events, as improper burning can easily lead to dangerous and uncontrolled wildfires that threaten public safety and the local environment.