On August 14, 2023, Gov. John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency due to the multiple impacts of extreme heat affecting the state. The Louisiana State Fire Marshal and the Louisiana Department of Agriculture (LDAF) also recently issued a statewide cease and desist order for all private burning. There have been over 440 wildfires in August alone.

“Everyone should take these dangerously high temperatures seriously. The extreme heat has already caused a high number of deaths and sent even more people to the hospital. In addition, our state is experiencing very dry weather, which coupled with the heat has produced a number of wildfires. So far the fires have destroyed more than 20,000 acres of land and property. That is exactly why the burn ban is in place. I want to thank State Fire Marshal Dan Wallis and State Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain for the work they are doing to keep us safe, but we need everyone in communities statewide to pitch in and help. It is necessary for all of us to do our part to prevent any further problems from occurring. Please stay cool and hydrated. Also, follow the burn ban, and encourage your family, friends and neighbors to do the same.”

 

 

        

  

Resources:

News Release: Gov. Edwards Reminds Everyone to Adhere to the Statewide Burn Ban as the Drought and Extreme Heat Continue

News Release: Gov. Edwards Holds UCG for Latest on Wildfires and Announces FEMA’s Approval of Federal Grant to Help Beauregard Parish

Report a Roadway Emergency: Dial *577

Road Closures: www.511la.org

Get a Game Plan: getagameplan.org