High winds, low humidity pose ‘high’ fire risk Tuesday
Finland Fire Department
Outdoor News

High winds, low humidity pose ‘high’ fire risk Tuesday

With low humidity levels and expected 45 mph wind gusts across northeastern Minnesota later this afternoon, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has issued a Red Flag Warning due to extreme fire risk conditions.

The Red Flag Warning is in effect today, Tuesday, April 16, until 9 p.m., and encompasses several northeastern Minnesota counties, including Cook, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, and St. Louis.

The Minnesota DNR said the Red Flag Warning means “fires can spread quickly and easily progress out of control under the current weather condition.”

The DNR advises residents not to burn brush piles in counties where the Red Flag Warning is in effect. The DNR said it will not issue or activate open burning permits for large vegetative debris burning during the Red Flag Warning. All campfires are discouraged.

“Any spark could become a wildfire under Red Flag conditions,” said Karen Harrison, DNR wildfire prevention specialist.

The National Weather Service issued a hazardous weather outlook for portions of northeastern Minnesota due to the expected high winds.

“Strong east to northeast winds are expected this afternoon through tonight. A Wind Advisory is in effect for expected gusts of 45 to 50 mph, mainly near the North Shore,” the National Weather Service said.

April 16 – Fire Danger ‘High’ in northeastern Minnesota – Minnesota DNR

April 16 Current Burning Restrictions – Minnesota DNR