Ascension Parish Issues Burn Ban

Following the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office announcement of a forest fire along Interstate 12 last Sunday, Ascension Parish has taken similar precautionary action.

Ascension Parish is under a burn ban after an executive order was signed by Parish President Clint Cointment.

The order immediately prohibits all private burning across the parish due to extremely dry conditions and an increased risk of uncontrolled fires. Officials say a prolonged lack of rainfall has created hazardous conditions, leading to multiple fires in Ascension and surrounding parishes and placing significant strain on local fire districts.

The executive order declares a State of Emergency and issues a cease-and-desist order for all private burning. The Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness will serve as the point of contact for this action.

The burn ban took effect Tuesday, February 24, 2026, and will remain in place through Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

Residents are urged to avoid burning debris, trash, or vegetation during this time to reduce fire risk and protect both property and first responders.

St. Tammany Parish Forest Fire

Officials said extremely dry conditions and heavy winds allowed the forest fire to spread quickly, producing dense smoke that reduced visibility for drivers. Portions of I 12 were temporarily shut down to protect motorists and give fire crews safe access to the area. Drivers described conditions similar to heavy fog, and authorities urged the public to slow down and use caution.

Fire departments from across St. Tammany Parish responded and worked for hours to contain the forest fire and prevent it from reaching nearby properties. Officials credited coordination between deputies, fire districts, and emergency response teams for preventing injuries and limiting structural damage. Authorities also warned that Red Flag conditions and ongoing drought have significantly increased forest fire risk across the region.