Isaias Winds Elevate Wildfire Risk Across Gulf Region

Hurricane Isaias’s outer circulation is drawing dry air and gusty winds across parts of the Gulf South, creating elevated wildfire danger even where the storm is expected to bring little or no rain. Officials warn that critically dry vegetation, low humidity and wind could make fires spread rapidly in Mississippi, Southwest Louisiana and East Texas. Eighteen Mississippi counties and the Louisiana parishes of Beauregard and Vernon have burn bans, while a Red Flag Warning covers portions of central and Southwest Louisiana. Forestry and weather officials urge residents throughout the affected areas to avoid outdoor burning, fire pits and other open flames until conditions improve.