Evacuation orders in place near Cotton as Munger Shaw Fire grows

As firefighting crews are battling the Camp House Fire and Jenkins Creek Fire, a third wildfire near Cotton ignited early evening Monday, May 12.

The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office reported at approximately 6 p.m. on Monday evening that a large fire is burning on both sides of Munger Shaw Rd south of Three Lakes Rd and moving quickly.

Munger Shaw Rd is directly east of Hwy 53 and approximately 15 miles southeast of Cotton.

Residents in the east half of Cotton Township including Morley Beach Rd, Elde Rd, Comstock Lake Rd, and the surrounding areas should evacuate.

Munger Shaw Fire southeast of Cotton

Road closures are occurring in the area due to the fire and thick smoke, according to fire officials.

An evacuation center is being established at the Cotton Town Hall.

As of 6 p.m., the Munger Shaw Fire is estimated at 30 acres in size.

Kalli Hawkins May 12, 2025