By Paige Gurgainers

Webster Parish is now in moderate drought conditions according to the National Weather Service and U.S. Drought Monitor.  

Webster Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (WPOHSEP) Director Brian Williams said, “We did receive some rain last week, but we have not received a lot.” 

The Louisiana Fire Chiefs Association has not requested a burn ban yet, but Williams still encourages residents to be cautious when burning.  

He said, “If you are going to burn, make sure to have a water source nearby. Try not to burn if you don’t have to until we get a significant amount of rain.” 

Williams, who is also the Minden Fire Chief, recalled an incident last week just north of Minden where 6.5-acres caught fire, along with a truck and trailer. Another fire broke out at the north end of the parish, near Shongaloo, that required six different responding agencies to contain it. Both were caused by residents burning and the fire getting out of control.   

They will continue to monitor the weather and update accordingly.