Shreveport, Louisiana – Fire danger is elevated across the entire ArkLaTex today as strong northwest winds combine with very low humidity, creating conditions that allow fires to ignite easily and spread rapidly. Officials are urging residents to avoid outdoor burning and take extra precautions through the afternoon and early evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Shreveport, northwest winds of 10 to 15 mph with gusts between 20 and 25 mph are expected across north Louisiana, east Texas, southern Arkansas, and southwest Mississippi. Relative humidity values are forecast to drop into the 15 to 20 percent range, significantly increasing the risk for grass fires and fast-moving wildfires.
The elevated fire threat includes Shreveport, Bossier City, Texarkana, Natchitoches, Monroe, El Dorado, and surrounding rural areas. Dry vegetation combined with gusty winds could allow even small sparks to quickly escape control, especially in open fields, wooded areas, and along roadways.
Fire officials strongly discourage all outdoor burning today, including brush piles and yard debris. Residents are also advised to properly dispose of cigarettes, secure tow chains to prevent sparks, avoid parking vehicles over dry grass, and keep ignition sources away from dry fuels.
The elevated fire danger is expected to last through 6 p.m. as winds gradually ease later this evening. Conditions may improve slightly overnight, but officials urge continued caution until humidity levels recover and winds subside.
