Louisiana is experiencing unusually dry conditions statewide, increasing the risk of wildfires as rain remains scarce across much of the state.
The most severe drought conditions are in northern Louisiana, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Rainfall totals in some areas over the past year are nearly 2 feet below normal.
In the New Orleans area, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport has recorded no measurable rain since Oct. 4. Rain chances are expected to remain limited over the next several days.
Although October is historically one of Louisiana’s driest months, an extended lack of rainfall can dry out soil and vegetation, creating conditions in which fires can ignite and spread quickly.
As of Oct. 21, burn bans were in effect in 34 parishes:
- Acadia
- Allen
- Beauregard
- Bienville
- Bossier
- Caddo
- Calcasieu
- Caldwell
- Catahoula
- East Carroll
- East Feliciana
- Evangeline
- Franklin
- Grant
- Jackson
- Jefferson Davis
- Lincoln
- Morehouse
- Natchitoches
- Ouachita
- Rapides
- Red River
- Richland
- Sabine
- St. Helena
- St. Landry
- Tangipahoa
- Union
- Vermilion
- Vernon
- Washington
- Webster
- West Carroll
- Winn
Residents in affected areas should avoid outdoor burning, including burning yard debris, starting campfires or conducting other open-burning activities. Local restrictions may vary, and residents should check with parish officials before burning outdoors.
Burn-ban information can change quickly as conditions improve or worsen. Officials urge residents to follow all restrictions to help protect communities, property and emergency responders.
READ MORE:Louisiana’s Burn Bans: Worsening Drought leads to higher fire danger
