Dry weather sparks wildfire concerns across Tangipahoa and St. Helena parishes

PINE GROVE - Fire officials said recent hot, dry weather has created the perfect conditions for wildfires, prompting burn bans in several parishes.

St. Helena fire crews have reportedly responded to 20 grass fires this month alone, with six occurring in the Pine Grove Volunteer Fire District. Pine Grove Fire Chief Kenneth Smith said the recent dry spell, broken only by a brief rainfall on Wednesday, has made the area especially vulnerable.

“Most of these grass fires are started by homeowners, getting out to cut grass, burn leaves or small limbs,” Smith said. “With this wind, it spreads very quickly onto fields and other yards.”

The burn bans, effective September 13, cover Tangipahoa and St. Helena parishes, an attempt by local leaders to reduce the risk of human-caused fires.

Hammond F