Louisiana Fires
Track active Louisiana wildfires with a live LA wildfire map. See fires in Louisiana today – location, size, and containment status – plus new and updated Louisiana wildfire information for 2026. We monitor official sources so you always see current, verified data.
Daily Wildfire Report
Daily Wildfire Report for Louisiana - August 23, 2026
Overview
Louisiana is currently facing a critical fire threat driven by an intense, prolonged heatwave and significant rainfall deficits across the state. The rapid onset of flash drought conditions has severely dried out local vegetation, transforming brush and timber into highly volatile fuel sources. With the Lower Mississippi Valley experiencing above-normal fire potential, statewide resources are on high alert as the risk for new and rapidly spreading wildfires remains elevated.
Current Situation
Fire Activity: Over the past 72 hours, dry ground conditions and stressed vegetation have contributed to active wildfire incidents across the state. First responders and forestry crews are actively engaged in suppression efforts, reinforcing containment lines, and monitoring hotspots to prevent further spread in these tinderbox conditions.
Key Fires:
State Line Fire: Located near Union Parish, this fire has burned approximately 152 acres and is currently 75% contained. Fueled by dry timber, surface vegetation, and grasses, the fire has been boxed in by crews along the majority of its edge. Firefighters are focusing on the remaining 25% of uncontained fireline, monitoring the perimeter, and ensuring that hot, dry winds do not cause flare-ups.
Mc Elroy 2 Fire: Ignited on August 14, 2026, this active fire has burned approximately 70 acres. Firefighters continue to monitor and manage the perimeter, working through dense brush and dry ground fuels to prevent further expansion.
Prescribed Burns and Land Management: In response to the escalating fire danger over the last 72 hours, local and state officials have rapidly expanded burn bans. Currently, at least 22 parishes—including Washington, Bossier, Caddo, Natchitoches, East Feliciana, St. Helena, and Tangipahoa—are under strict open burning restrictions. The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) has classified several of these areas, notably Washington Parish, as having "Very High" fire danger. These bans prohibit all open outdoor burning, such as burn piles and barrels. The only exceptions are for official prescribed burns conducted by the LDAF or certified agricultural practices. Authorities are strictly enforcing these bans, with violators facing civil citations of up to $500 and potential jail time if property damage occurs.
Air Quality: With active fires and localized smoldering, residents near the State Line and Mc Elroy 2 fires may experience intermittent smoke impacts, especially during the early morning hours when smoke settles. Vulnerable individuals in these areas should limit outdoor exposure and keep windows closed if smoke is visible.