A large woods fire has ignited in Sabine Parish, Louisiana, prompting multiple fire crews to respond urgently. The blaze, which started near Corleyville Road in the Mount Carmel area, has led authorities to caution residents to be prepared for potential evacuations.

As of 4:45 p.m., residents of the Plain View community were urged to evacuate due to the fire’s southeast progression from the Mount Carmel Cutoff Road and Louisiana Highway 118 vicinity. The sheriff’s office has labeled this a perilous and evolving situation, advising people to steer clear of the area, and several uncontained fires have been reported.

With several roads affected and closures in place, the incident coincides with Gov. John Bel Edwards’ state of emergency declaration due to extreme heat and dry conditions, leading to a statewide burn ban.