Burning restrictions went into effect early Wednesday morning across Carlton, Cook, Lake, and St. Louis counties as fire danger increases due to little precipitation and warm weather.
Per the Minnesota DNR, the fire restrictions mean burning permits will not be issued for brush or yard waste, fireworks may not be ignited on any public or private land outside city limit, and campfires are allowed only in an established fire ring associated with a home, campground, or resort.
No campfires are allowed for dispersed, remote, backpacking, or backcountry camping.
"Unusually dry conditions have increased the risk of fire. One unintentional spark in these conditions could result in thousands of charred acres and property damage,” said Allissa Reynolds, wildfire prevention supervisor. “This is a dangerous time for wildfires in northeast Minnesota.”
The Minnesota DNR expects the fire danger to last well into late June. Burning restrictions will remain until terminated by the DNR commissioner and when weather/environmental conditions improve.
“We don’t issue burning restrictions lightly. It’s a matter of public safety and resources. Minnesotans have a history of making a difference on wildfire prevention when they keep safety top of mind,” Reynolds added.
More about fire danger conditions can be found on the DNR statewide fire danger and burning restrictions map.
Wednesday's fire restrictions combine with a pair of air quality alerts issued by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
Air quality levels are expected to be in the orange air quality index (AQI) category, a level that is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, for northern and southeast Minnesota. In the orange area, sensitive groups should avoid prolonged time outdoors.