What is the name and location of the wildfire?

The Tiger Island Fire is located in Beauregard Parish, in southwestern Louisiana. As of August 28, 223, it is burning east of Merryville, south of Hwy 190, southwest of DeRidder, and north of Singer (1)(2)(3)(4).

One person has been killed and 20 buildings were destroyed by the fire.

At around 33,000 acres, the Tiger Island Fire is the largest wildfire in Louisiana's history. It’s one of four major fires in the state, where 441 fires have been reported in August.

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The towns and areas directly affected by the Tiger Island Fire include Merryville, a rural town just east of the Texas border, and communities near the fire, such as Junction. Beauregard Parish, where the fire is located, is also impacted.

The following areas are directly impacted by the Tiger Island Fire:

• Merryville, a rural town just east of the Texas border. Merryville was evacuated due to the fire.
• Junction, DeRidder, and Singer, Lousiana.
• Beauregard Parish, where the fire is primarily situated.

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

The containment status of the Tiger Island Fire is reported to be at only 50%. Half of the fire's perimeter is under control, and the other half remains uncontained. Efforts are ongoing to control and contain the fire.

An intense heatwave is helping feed the state’s fires.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

The entire town of Merryville, with a population of 1,200 residents, was evacuated due to the Tiger Island Fire. There have been both voluntary and mandatory evacuation orders in place. Additionally, evacuation orders and instructions have been provided for areas along Seth Cole Road down to Graybow Road.

Evacuation centers were set up at the First Methodist Church and First Baptist Church in DeRidder. The situation remains unpredictable due to changing wind conditions and the fire's potential to spread.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

• Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
• Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
• Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
• Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
• Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.