Two wildfires believed to have been started by lightning are burning on the Kisatchie National Forest in Natchitoches Parish, according to a news release.
The two fires are about a mile apart, according to the U.S. Forest Service. It’s believed lightning struck the areas over the past weekend, sparking both fires, it reads.
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Both are near the Longleaf Scenic Byway on the Kisatchie Ranger District. One is about 7 acres, while the second is about 16 acres. The fires are being referred to as the Backbone Fire, according to a U.S. Forest Service map.
Because of the fires, the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness area, trails within that area, the Longleaf Vista Recreation Area and the Caroline Dormon trailhead parking lot all are closed until further notice.
This map provided by the U.S. Forest Service shows two wildfires on the Kisatchie National Forest in Natchitoches Parish.
“The rugged terrain of the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Area coupled with the extreme heat we have been having in central Louisiana presents a complex fire problem,” said Lisa Lewis, the Forest Supervisor of the Kisatchie National Forest. “We will employ the strategies necessary to ensure firefighter and public safety while fighting these wildfires.”
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The release urges people to use caution if they’re traveling in the area because they may encounter fire personnel, heavy equipment or smoke. Anyone needing more information can call 318-473-7160.
This article originally appeared on Alexandria Town Talk: U.S. Forest Service: Kisatchie Hills area wildfires prompt closures in Louisiana
