Tiger Island, Hwy 113, Lions Camp Road and Elizabeth Fires Updates, Fire Highlights & Weather Forecast for Louisiana September 26

By Evelina Rivers
Published September 27, 2023

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Louisiana – In response to continued heightened fire risks, the Louisiana Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry indicated that the ongoing burn ban will continue to be in place, prohibiting private and agricultural burning.

Despite recent precipitation reducing fire danger, the potential for dry fuels in grass areas and the risk of lightning pose ongoing challenges.

This article provides updates on fire containment, equipment deployed, and the weather forecast, including anticipated elevated fire weather conditions later in the week. This information was provided in an update published by The National Wildfire Coordinating Group.

Fire Updates and Containment Status For Louisiana Wildfires

Fire suppression efforts have been ongoing, with personnel assignments strategically allocated.

Currently, the Tiger Island Fire spans 31,290 acres and is 84% contained, with 222 personnel assigned to the area.

The Hwy. 113 Fire covers 7,124 acres and is 95% contained, with 36 personnel assigned.

The Lions Camp Road Fire, spanning 785 acres, is 100% contained, with one person assigned.

The Elizabeth Fire, covering 940 acres, is also 100% contained, with 19 personnel assigned.

These dedicated individuals continue to search for and extinguish hot spots, patrol containment lines, and clear out needle casts, ensuring the safety of affected areas.

Fire Highlights and Weather Impact in Louisiana

Three key fire highlights and the potential weather impact are important to consider in the current situation in Louisiana.

The recent rain has had a positive effect on reducing fire danger. The precipitation has dampened the fuels on the ground, making them less prone to ignition. However, it is important to note that this effect may be temporary as sunny and open grass fuel areas are expected to dry out quickly.

There is a potential impact of lightning on fire operations. With scattered showers and thunderstorms expected in the afternoons and evenings, lightning strikes may occur, posing a risk of new fire ignitions. This could hinder firefighting efforts and require additional resources to address any new incidents. Fire crews will need to remain vigilant and prepared for any potential lightning-related fire incidents.

Equipment and Resources Deployed For Wildfires in Louisiana

Various equipment and resources have been deployed to assist in the firefighting efforts in Louisiana. Type 6 engines, dozers, tractor plow units, water tenders, medical squads, and ambulances have been assigned to the fires to combat the blaze effectively. Additionally, aerial resources such as helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft are available to provide support from the air.

The firefighting equipment is crucial in containing and extinguishing the fires, ensuring the safety of both the firefighters and the affected communities.

In addition to the equipment, various authorities and departments, including parish authorities, sheriff’s offices, and the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, have also provided additional support.

This collaborative effort aims to effectively manage the ongoing fire incidents and protect the affected areas from further devastation.

Weather Forecast and Fire Behavior Outlook

The weather forecast and fire behavior outlook indicate that scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected in the afternoon and evening, with partly to mostly sunny skies and warm and humid conditions throughout the day.

These conditions can have a potential impact on fire behavior. The scattered showers can temporarily decrease the fire activity by dampening the fuels on the ground. However, it is important to note that the current drought conditions will not be erased by the rainfall.

The role of humidity and temperature in fire behavior is significant. The warm and humid conditions can contribute to the drying out of fuels, especially in sunny and open grass fuel areas.

Lower humidity and afternoon wind gusts later in the week may bring back elevated fire weather conditions. It is crucial for fire crews to monitor these weather conditions and adjust their strategies accordingly.