It was reported to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office on Sept. 2 that over 400 acres burned in the Lake Gorum wildfire on Sept. 1.

 

Multiple units with ground and air support tankers were based at AEX airport in Alexandria temporarily to respond quickly to west Louisiana wildfires.

 

One air tanker can hold up to 9,500 gallons of retardant and fly as low as 300-350 feet above the ground to make drops. The aircraft is specially retrofitted to accomplish low flying missions during wildfires.

 

No homes destroyed.

 

The cause of the fire is still being investigated.

 

Images courtesy of Lt B. Smith, NPSO Patrol Operations Bureau.

 

A statewide burn ban remains in effect. Please do not burn. A small flame can ignite a major fire resulting in significant property loss, injury or even death.