A mandatory evacuation has been ordered for residents on Neale Oil Field Road by Beauregard authorities as a wildfire continues to spread in the Singer and Merryville area of Louisiana. The fire has moved north overnight and is now only half a mile away from the area of the mandatory evacuation.
In addition to the mandatory evacuation, there is a voluntary evacuation in place for the Town of Merryville. Fire crews are working tirelessly to battle the wildfire, which has already crossed Highway 110 and is burning on both sides.
For residents who need to evacuate but do not have transportation, a staging area has been set up at the Merryville Town Hall. From there, residents will be transported to DeRidder Junior High School. Authorities warn that the evacuation may become mandatory if the fire continues to grow.
Both Singer High School and Merryville High School have announced that they will be closed due to the wildfires. Highway 110 in the Merryville area has been shut down for safety reasons.
Water shortage is also a concern as the Water Works District 3 reports that a large portion of their water is being used to fight the fires. Residents are urged to conserve water by refraining from watering lawns during this time. Though low water pressure may be experienced in certain areas, there is enough water for regular use such as washing dishes and showers.
Beauregard Electric has interrupted power along Highway 110 from Singer to Merryville as a safety precaution. Residents are advised to stay away from utility lines while crews monitor the situation.
Donations of water, Powerade, snacks, and other useful items are being accepted at the Singer Water District Office to support the first responders on the scene. Animal evacuations are also underway, and the Beauregard Covered Arena is open to accommodate animals in need of shelter.
For more information on animal evacuations, residents can call 337-375-6315. Stay updated on the wildfire situation through local news sources and follow official instructions from authorities.