Lake Charles, LA – The National Weather Service in Lake Charles is warning residents across southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana of an elevated fire danger today, Wednesday, October 15, as dry fuels and low humidity combine with light winds to increase wildfire potential.
According to the NWS, relative humidity could drop to 30–35% with east-northeast winds of 5–10 mph, allowing fires to spread rapidly under the right conditions. The highest concern is for grass and marsh fires, and officials urge the public to avoid outdoor burning and any activities that create sparks or open flames.
Forecasters also caution that drought conditions continue across the region, with Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) values between 550 and 750, indicating dry surface fuels.
Looking ahead, rain chances return by Saturday as Gulf moisture collides with an approaching cold front, potentially bringing showers and isolated thunderstorms through Sunday morning. Rainfall totals are expected to range from a quarter-inch to one inch across much of the area.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from the National Weather Service and prepare for changing conditions as the weekend approaches.
