BATON ROUGE, La. (RFD NEWS) — Fire crews across Louisiana are continuing to monitor and mop up multiple wildfires that ignited over the weekend, fueled by dry vegetation, low humidity, and gusty winds. State forestry officials say dozens of fires sparked across the state, with most now contained but still posing concerns due to lingering hotspots.
Some of the largest fires were reported in St. Tammany Parish, where a blaze near Abita Springs and Lacombe burned more than 400 acres and temporarily forced the closure of Interstate 12. Significant fires were also confirmed in Beauregard Parish, Webster Parish, Livingston Parish, and Allen Parish, with several incidents flaring back up after initially being contained.
Strong winds reportedly caused at least one blaze to “jump” across a major roadway, a phenomenon considered extremely unusual since roads typically slow the spread of wildfires,
According to the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, fire crews remain on alert statewide as Red Flag conditions persist. Officials warn that even contained fires can reignite quickly under current weather conditions.
Burn bans are in effect in numerous parishes, and residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and any activities that could spark new fires. Forestry officials stress that fire danger remains high until meaningful rainfall returns to the region.