Minnesota Fires

## Daily Wildfire Report for Minnesota - July 28, 2025

### Overview
Minnesota is currently experiencing a National Preparedness Level of 4, indicating that national resources are heavily committed to managing wildfire incidents. While the immediate fire activity within the state may not be at its peak, the overall national situation highlights a period of high demand for firefighting resources. The state's wildfire risk is influenced by seasonal conditions, with the period after snowmelt and before full vegetation green-up historically being a dangerous time for wildfires.

### Current Situation
**Fire Activity:** Over the past 72 hours, Minnesota has seen a significant number of wildfires this year, with over 800 fires reported since the beginning of the year, nearly double the average for this period. While specific new large fires have not been highlighted in recent reports, the potential for new significant wildfires remains a concern due to prevailing weather patterns.

**Key Fires:** No specific large, active fires requiring extensive national support were detailed in the reports from the last 72 hours. However, in early June, several large fires in northeastern Minnesota, including the Jenkins Creek Fire (16,145 acres, 94% contained), Camp House Fire (12,071 acres, 98% contained), and Munger Shaw Fire (1,259 acres, 95% contained), were nearing full containment. The Jenkins Creek Fire was believed to be human-caused and was smoldering in areas with affected vegetation, deep peat, and sphagnum moss.

**Prescribed Burns and Land Management:** The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is authorized to establish controlled burning programs to manage vegetation, propagate wildlife habitats, and reduce wildfire hazards. Prescribed burns require permits and adherence to specific plans, with personnel qualified as Burn Bosses directing these operations. Residents are encouraged to check the DNR's daily updated maps for current fire danger and burning restrictions.

### Weather and Wind Warnings
**Current Weather:** Scattered showers and humidity are present in northern Minnesota, which can aid firefighting efforts. However, a band of heavy smoke from wildfires in Saskatchewan and Manitoba has been moving south across central and northern Minnesota, impacting air quality. An air quality alert has been in effect for parts of the state.

**Forecasted Weather:** Persistent northerly winds are expected to continue through at least Thursday, potentially pulling more wildfire smoke into the state and requiring air quality alerts. By Wednesday, smoke may impact southern Minnesota and the entire state. Winds are expected to switch to the south by Friday, which should improve air quality. The forecast indicates a potential for warmer and drier conditions, which could increase fire behavior.

### Recommendations
**Public Awareness:** Residents are advised to be aware of potential smoke impacts on air quality and to follow guidelines for campfire safety. It is crucial to have an emergency plan in place and to clear dead brush from properties to reduce the risk of catastrophic fires. The majority of wildfires in Minnesota are human-caused, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and responsible behavior.

### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
* **National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC):** [www.nifc.gov](https://www.nifc.gov/)
* **Minnesota DNR Wildfire Status:** [www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/index.html](https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/index.html)
* **Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) Air Quality:** [www.pca.state.mn.us/air/air-quality-and-health](https://www.pca.state.mn.us/air/air-quality-and-health)

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.

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