In a special weather statement issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service (NWS), residents of East Feliciana, Northern Tangipahoa, Pointe Coupee, St. Helena, Washington, and West Feliciana Parishes have been urged to exercise caution due to increasing fire danger in the region.

According to the statement, severe to extreme drought, mostly sunny skies, and low relative humidity have created favorable conditions for the spread of any ongoing or new fires. As such, residents are advised to be extra vigilant on Saturday and to take necessary precautions to prevent fires.

In addition to area-wide Burn Bans still in effect, federal fire weather officials have recommended several safety and prevention actions, including not parking vehicles on dry grass, ensuring any trailer chains do not drag on pavement creating sparks, fully extinguishing all cigarettes before disposing in a proper container, and reporting any observed fires to 911 immediately.

With the fire danger increasing across Southwestern MS and Southeastern LA, it is essential for citizens to take these recommendations seriously and to do their part in preventing the spread of fires in the region.