Crews Battle Large Woods Fire Shutting Down I-12 in Lacombe

St. Tammany Parish officials have closed a stretch of the interstate due to heavy smoke and low visibility.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A large woods fire has prompted the closure of a portion of Interstate 12 in Lacombe, Louisiana. St. Tammany Parish officials have shut down I-12 from LA 434 to LA 59 due to heavy smoke and low visibility in the area. The fire is located near Fish Hatchery Road, but authorities say there is no immediate risk to nearby properties. First responders are actively working to contain the blaze.

Why it matters

Woods fires can quickly spread and pose a serious threat to public safety, especially when located near major transportation corridors. The closure of I-12, a key interstate highway, will cause significant traffic disruptions and delays for travelers in the region.

The details

Video footage shows large flames and heavy smoke conditions along I-12 in Lacombe. St. Tammany Parish officials have shut down a 25-mile stretch of the interstate from LA 434 to LA 59 due to the hazardous conditions. The fire is burning near Fish Hatchery Road, but authorities say there is no immediate risk to nearby properties at this time. First responders are on the scene working to contain the blaze.

  • The fire was first reported on February 23, 2026 around 12:54 AM.

The players

St. Tammany Parish

The local government authority responsible for the Lacombe area where the woods fire is located.

Pascal Barone IV

A local resident who captured video footage of the large flames and smoke conditions along I-12.

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What they’re saying

“Wild video shows fiery conditions along I-12 in Lacombe.”

— Pascal Barone IV (wdsu.com)

What’s next

First responders will continue working to contain the fire and reopen the closed section of I-12 as soon as it is safe to do so.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the potential dangers of uncontrolled woods fires, especially in areas with major transportation infrastructure. It underscores the importance of effective fire prevention and response efforts to protect public safety.