It’s been a dry fall so far, and the forecast is calling for little chance of rain over the next week. Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says the dry weather is helping farmers harvest their crops.
But as the Louisiana Radio Network reports, Strain says he is also increasingly concerned about the increased threat of wildfires. In fact, Strain says last week there were 43 wildfires that consumed 274 acres. “None of the fires have been quote, ‘acts of nature.’ In other words, lightning hasn’t caused any of this. Most of this precipitated by human activities.”
The latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows much of Louisiana is abnormally dry, and sections of south Louisiana are experiencing moderate drought conditions. The Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry employs a publicly-available interactive computerized map system that shows real-time burn bans.
Outdoor burn bans are in effect for Caddo & Desoto parishes in North Louisiana and St. Landry & Acadia Parishes in South Louisiana. According to the drought monitor, 1.2 million Louisiana residents are in areas of drought.
Wildfire smoke is a mix of gases and fine particles from burning vegetation and other materials. It can travel hundreds of miles and cause health concerns. Stay Weather-Ready by learning how to protect yourself. cdc.gov/disasters/wildfires/index.html
Wildfires are caused by a spark (usually man-made) in the presence of fuel (dry vegetation) and oxygen. Strong winds, high temperatures, low humidity and drought conditions can further impact the fire’s spread. To stay Weather-Ready and protect yourself from wildfires, visit weather.gov/safety/wildfire
