ST. TAMMANY PARISH, La. | October 22, 2026
A burn ban is in place throughout St. Tammany Parish as drought and a prolonged lack of meaningful rainfall heighten fire concerns, parish government announced Thursday.
Parish President Mike Cooper issued the ban following a unanimous recommendation from local fire chiefs and Emergency Preparedness Director Clint Ory. The parish said it will remain in place for two weeks before officials reassess conditions.
Residents are urged to refrain from burning and to contact emergency services if they detect smoke or fire in their area.
Cooper said protecting residents and property drove the decision. He cited concerns from fire officials about the potential for fires to start quickly in dry conditions and the effort required to bring them under control.
The restriction comes as the National Weather Service forecasts continued dry weather and stronger winds this weekend. In its Thursday midday forecast, the agency said light winds were limiting rapid fire spread, but drought and dry vegetation remained concerns.
Forecasters expect winds to increase during the second half of the weekend, potentially worsening fire conditions. Rain chances remain very low through the weekend, offering little immediate relief for dried vegetation.
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