New Orleans, LA — Strong winds and dry air are creating dangerous wildfire conditions across parts of Louisiana and Mississippi Monday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in New Orleans, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. CDT Monday for much of southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi as a cold front moves through the region.
Forecasters say northwest winds of 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph combined with relative humidity dropping to around 25 percent will create conditions where fires can ignite easily and spread rapidly.
The warning includes multiple parishes across southeast Louisiana, including East Baton Rouge, West Baton Rouge, Iberville, Ascension, Livingston, Tangipahoa, St. Tammany, St. Helena, Washington, St. Charles, Lafourche, Terrebonne, and surrounding areas.
In southern Mississippi, Wilkinson, Amite, Pike, and Walthall counties are also included in the alert.
Meteorologists say the combination of strong winds, dry air, and warm post-frontal conditions significantly increases the risk of fast-moving grass or brush fires. Even small sparks — such as from outdoor burning, equipment, or vehicles parked on dry grass — could quickly ignite vegetation.
Officials strongly advise avoiding outdoor burning during the warning period, as fires may become difficult to control once started.
Emergency managers note that fire crews may face challenging conditions if fires develop, particularly in open fields or wooded areas where wind can accelerate flame spread.
The warning is expected to expire at 7 p.m. CDT Monday, when winds are forecast to gradually weaken and humidity levels begin to recover.
For residents commuting or spending time outdoors Monday afternoon, officials recommend using extra caution with anything that could create sparks or flames.
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