VIDEO: A wildfire burning deep in the Kisatchie National Forest in Natchitoches Parish has grown significantly over the past week, from just seven acres when first discovered to about 1,200 acres. Firefighters said they are making good progress, and thereโs no major threat to nearby homes or communities. Around 80 crew members from the U.S. Forest Service are working around the clock to contain the blaze.
Derek Bollan, Field Operations Chief with the U.S. Forestry Service, said crews feel confident about the situation. While people may see some smoke, especially around the Longleaf Byway or even near I-49, itโs expected to have little impact. โThere may be some visible smoke, but overall, thereโs nothing to be worried about,โ said Bollan.
The north side of the fire is mostly under control. Crews are now focusing on the south end, using existing hiking trails to build fire lines. Theyโre also planning to use controlled burns, depending on the weather. Firefighters are also utilizing drones to aid in managing the fire. Josh Bryant, a fire planner with Kisatchie National Forest, said drones are used to map the fire and detect hot spots. โWe can fly the drone around the fire to find heat signatures and map the perimeter,โ said Bryant.
The drone team has even helped with aerial ignition, starting small, controlled fires to remove fuel and stop the wildfire from spreading. They use small devices called โdragon eggs,โ which are dropped from drones and ignite upon impact with the ground. This allows them to safely start controlled burns without putting firefighters in dangerous areas.
Officials said the fire was started naturally by a lightning strike. Two separate fires have now combined into one larger blaze. Firefighters said the weather and terrain are helping them manage the fire, and theyโll remain on the scene until it is fully contained. People are asked to stay away from the area so fire crews can do their work safely.
