ALBANY, N.Y. -- Even with the recent wet and cold conditions, the state Department of Environmental Conservation is continuing to remind New Yorkers a burn ban is still in effect.

The ban prohibits the burning of brushes and other yard waste until May 14.

The DEC says that, so far, it's helped fight 23 wildfires in the state this season, burning a total of 67 acres, which is well below average. 

Officials say it only takes a few hours for wet leaves and grass to dry up and become fuel to burn.

"If you add wind to that and a couple days of dryness, you’ll see fire separate very quickly and become very destructive,” said Andrew Jacob, the assistant director for the state forest rangers.

The DEC says anyone caught burning brushes during the ban can face up to $700 in fines and penalties.