Residents across northwest Louisiana are being urged to use caution as the National Weather Service in Shreveport has issued a Fire Weather Watch beginning today, October 16, bringing an increased risk of rapidly spreading wildfires.

Ongoing drought conditions, low humidity and wind gusts reaching up to 35 mph will combine to create dangerous fire conditions across the region. The watch includes much of northwest Louisiana and surrounding areas of Texas and Arkansas, extending through Saturday at 1 a.m.

The arrival of a cold front will bring cooler temperatures to the area, but the combination of dry vegetation and gusty winds could allow even a small fire to spread quickly and become difficult to control.

A Fire Weather Watch means conditions favorable for dangerous wildfires are possible. Although the cooler temperatures will bring a welcome change after weeks of warm weather, the dry conditions will remain a concern.

Residents are encouraged to avoid outdoor burning Friday and throughout the weekend and monitor local weather updates for any additional warnings or restrictions.