A parish-wide outdoor burn ban will take effect in Concordia Parish at 7 Wednesday, October 28, as ongoing drought conditions and dry vegetation continue to increase the risk of wildfires across the region.
The Concordia Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (OHSEP) announced the ban Tuesday, citing prolonged dry weather, low humidity levels, and an increased danger of outdoor fires spreading rapidly.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, Mississippi, afternoon relative humidity levels have recently dropped below 30 percent in portions of the region. Combined with extremely dry vegetation, these conditions make it easier for fires to ignite and spread, even when winds are relatively light.
As of Tuesday, October 27, temperatures in Concordia Parish were near 80 degrees under predominantly sunny skies. Forecasters expect dry conditions to continue through Thursday, October 29, with daytime temperatures reaching the lower 80s and little chance of rainfall.
While rain chances are expected to increase over the weekend of October 31 and November 1, officials warn that significant rainfall will be needed to reduce the ongoing wildfire threat.
“Our primary concern is protecting the lives and property of Concordia Parish residents,” OHSEP Director Timothy P. Vanier said. “With the continued drought conditions and extremely dry vegetation throughout the Parish, even a small outdoor fire can quickly spread beyond control. We are asking everyone to take this burn ban seriously and help prevent unnecessary emergencies that place our residents and first responders at risk.”
Under the burn ban, outdoor open burning is prohibited throughout Concordia Parish. This includes burning leaves, grass, limbs, brush, and other yard debris, subject to any exemptions outlined in the official burn-ban order and applicable law.
The ban will remain in effect until further notice. Officials say restrictions will be reevaluated as weather conditions improve and sufficient rainfall reduces the risk of uncontrolled fires.
The Concordia Parish OHSEP will continue monitoring conditions in coordination with the National Weather Service and local fire departments.
Residents are encouraged to follow the Concordia Parish OHSEP Facebook page for the latest announcements and updates regarding the burn ban.
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