Dry Conditions Put More ArkLaTex Communities Under Burn Bans
SHREVEPORT, La. — Extremely dry conditions have led officials across parts of the ArkLaTex to restrict outdoor burning as fire danger remains elevated.
Several Northwest Louisiana parishes are currently under burn bans, including Caddo, Bossier, DeSoto, Natchitoches, Sabine and Webster parishes. Caddo Parish issued its ban on August 10, followed by Bossier Parish on August 11.
Burn restrictions are also in effect in portions of Arkansas and East Texas. Arkansas counties listed under bans include Miller, Lafayette, Columbia, Hempstead, Howard, Sevier and Little River. In Texas, restrictions include Marion, Morris, Shelby, Harrison and Cass counties, along with unincorporated areas of Panola and Bowie counties.
Burn bans are generally issued when prolonged heat and lack of rainfall leave grass, brush and other vegetation dry enough to ignite and spread fire quickly.
Residents in affected areas should avoid outdoor burning and check with local parish or county officials before doing any activity that could produce sparks or open flames.
The restrictions are expected to remain in place until local officials determine conditions have improved enough to safely lift them.