Five new wildfires have been reported near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Firefighters are actively tackling multiple blazes near Ely. The largest fire, the "Camp Fire," is estimated at between 1 and 2 acres. The fire was reported July 7 in the Superior National Forest.
They're reporting that the fire is burning in heavy timber with pockets of blowdown approximately 8 miles north/northeast of Ely. At the reported time, fire activity was creeping and smoldering, with minimal fire activity, but conditions to remain dry enough that they've done multiple water drops.
Ground crews are also in the area to help fight the spread.
While the other four blazes reportedly remain small, forest officials are urging the public to avoid the area. There are currently no fire closures within the BWCAW; however, the public is asked to stay out of the fire areas for their safety and firefighter safety.
These fires are believed to have been sparked by lightning but remain under investigation.
