LAKE CHARLES — As wildfires continue to spread throughout Louisiana, the National Weather Service in Lake Charles has issued a Red Flag (Fire Weather) Warning throughout Southwest Louisiana.
The Red Flag Warning will remain in effect until 8 p.m. on Sunday as a result of hot and dry air combined with extremely dry vegetation in Louisiana and neighboring Texas. There will be sustained winds of 5 to 15 miles per hour, with higher gusts contributing to a rapid spread of wildland fires.
The NWS states that fires can spread rapidly in these conditions and that residents to avoid any activities that cause open flames or sparks. Also, please properly discard cigarettes, avoid parking on dry grass, and check trailers for dragging chains.
The Red Flag Warning is in place for the following parishes: Vernon, Rapides, Avoyelles, Beauregard, Allen, Evangeline, St. Landry, Lafayette, St. Martin, Cameron, Calcasieu, Jefferson Davis, Acadia, Vermilion, Iberia, and St. Mary. As well as multiple counties in Texas.
There is also a Heat Advisory and Excessive Heat Warning in effect until 8 p.m. on Sunday. The NSW asks residents to continue to use extreme caution during outdoor activities, and include frequent breaks for water and in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
If possible, limit outdoor activities to early morning or evening.