Wisconsin fires

### Daily Wildfire Report for Wisconsin - April 24, 2025

#### Overview
Wisconsin is experiencing an unprecedented and alarming start to the wildfire season, driven by a combination of factors including a lack of snow this winter, dry and windy conditions, and the impacts of climate change. The state's vulnerability to wildfires has increased significantly, with record numbers of fires already reported in the early months of 2025.

#### Current Situation
- **Fire Activity:** Wisconsin has seen a record number of wildfires this year, with over 550 fires reported as of April 23. This is more than double the average for this time of year, highlighting the elevated fire risk due to droughty conditions and reduced snowpack[1][3][5].
- **Active Fires:** The state is currently battling multiple wildfires across various counties, with nearly 2,000 acres burned so far in 2025. The fires have resulted in the loss of 24 structures as of April 14[5].
- **Fire Danger Levels:** Most of Wisconsin, except for seven northernmost counties, is under high or very high fire danger levels. Counties such as La Crosse, Jackson, Monroe, and Trempealeau are listed as high fire danger, while Vernon and Crawford counties are at very high fire danger levels[5].

#### Key Details
- **Fire Causes:** A significant portion of the fires this year have been caused by people burning debris. The Wisconsin DNR has suspended burn permits in 24 counties due to the high fire danger[3].
- **Firefighting Efforts:** The Wisconsin DNR is staffing all available fire equipment and has mobilized resources to areas with elevated fire risk. Two Blackhawk helicopter crews from the Wisconsin Army National Guard are on standby, equipped with water bucket capabilities to fight fires[5].
- **Prescribed Burns and Land Management:** While there are no current reports of prescribed burns, the DNR and local communities are working to reduce fuel loads and mitigate wildfire risks. Specialists are collaborating with local communities to manage fuels on the landscape[3].

#### Recommendations
- **Public Awareness:** Residents are advised to be extremely cautious with any outdoor burning and to obtain proper burn permits from their municipalities if necessary. It is crucial to have an emergency plan in place and to clear dead brush and other combustible materials from properties to reduce the risk of catastrophic fires[3][5].
- **Resource Allocation:** Firefighters and resources are being allocated strategically to manage the high fire risk. Residents should be aware of fire traffic and potential smoke impacts, and stay informed through official channels[5].

#### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
- **Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) - WISBURN Website:** [dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/forestfire/wisburn.html](https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/forestfire/wisburn.html)
- **National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC):** [www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn](https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn)
- **Wisconsin Emergency Management:** [emergencymanagement.wi.gov](https://emergencymanagement.wi.gov)

#### Fire Weather and Wind Warnings
The forecast through the next few days indicates dry weather and windy conditions, which significantly increase the risk of wildfires. Residents should be prepared for these conditions and take all necessary precautions to prevent fires[5].

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.

CITATIONS

['https://www.drought.gov/drought-status-updates/drought-status-update-midwest-2025-04-24', 'https://waupacanow.com/stories/fire-season-is-here,267827', 'https://www.wpr.org/news/wisconsin-wildfires-record-climate-change-drought', 'https://www.nifc.gov/nicc-files/sitreprt.pdf', 'https://www.wizmnews.com/2025/04/14/wildfire-danger-in-wisconsin/']