VAN (KYTX) – In spite of Tuesday afternoon’s brief rain, cities like Van are still under a burn ban. And that’s making the road to recovery from the May tornado even bumpier.

Roy Betncourt is one of many Van residents who are still trying to clean up the mess. And the Van Zandt County burn ban means the cleanup will have to wait.

“I still got trees that still need to come down still need to be topped out. You know, slow progress,” he explained.

Betncourt’s backyard used to be full of trees and shade, but the tornado tumbled several of his trees down. But he says he’s just thankful he has a place to lay down at night.

“I’m lucky we still have a home that we can repair and that we can do work to,” said Betncourt.

Betncourt added burning debris is easier and more convenient, but he’d rather be safe than sorry.

“It’s always easier to burn it. But if you can’t burn it, it’s better to abide by the law and just haul it off then it is to get in trouble and risk,” he said. “We already lost enough. You don’t want to start a fire and end up burning your neighbor’s house down. That’s just not smart thinking.”

Betncourt is now focusing on restoring his home and has faith that his work in progress will return to its former glory.

“These things can be replaced. Yards can grow back. Trees can grow back. It’s not a problem,” Betncourt said.

The next thing on his to do list — adding a storm shelter to his home.