 Right now at Appalachian Wireless, you can get the Samsung Galaxy S7 for just $99.99 and get a second one. Three! Service agreement is required on both devices, serving you for the last 25 years with better service and bigger savings. At today's Appalachian Wireless. Today, Pike Judge Executive Bill Deskins declared a burning ban across the county. The declaration comes as the wildfire at Shelby Valley continues to burn, continues to grow, and continues to cause concern. The outdoor burn ban declared by Deskins on Wednesday adds Pike County to a growing list of eastern Kentucky counties, restricting burning. During the prolonged dry spell the region is experiencing. The number of counties currently stands at seven, including Pike, Floyd, Letcher, and Brethwick counties. Letcher's burn ban was also issued Wednesday. Pike Emergency Management Director Doug Tackett said fires in Pike County, particularly in the Shelby Valley area, are causing problems. Even resulting in Shelby Valley High School and Valley Elementary being dismissed around noon Wednesday due to heavy smoke in the area of the schools. There was even discussion of possibly evacuating Parkview Nursing Home at Shelby Valley if necessary. With the inversion of the weather, the smoke was on the ground really thick, you couldn't hardly see to drive. And the same problem you've got here at Robinson Creek right now, the smoke's been really heavy from this forest fire. And it's hazardous to those driving in the area that need to exercise caution. Tackett said there are hopes that rain forecast for Thursday will extinguish the fires, but the current forecast does not call for widespread or soaking rainfall. There's a 60% chance of rain tonight and tomorrow, but if it's scattered showers, if it doesn't rain where we need the rain, then it's not going to help a whole lot. 60% chance you may see some rain and you may not. We just have to wait and see. But I don't think there's enough forecast to really solve the issue we have where it's the dry right now. Tackett said those near wildfires should take precautions, and if they feel unsafe, or if smoke is negatively affecting their well-being, they should consider leaving the area until the smoke is out of the area. Tackett also said anyone who believes they or their property is in danger should call 911 immediately. If you are affected by a forest fire, if it's close to your home, call 911, they'll send a fire department. Heavy smoke, try to stay indoors and limit your exposure to the smoke if you can. Reporting in the Shelby Valley area for EKB News, I'm Chris Anderson.