Minneapolis, Minnesota – Outdoor burning could quickly spiral out of control by midday Saturday as strong winds and dry air combine across Minnesota, creating conditions primed for rapid wildfire spread.
According to the National Weather Service in the Twin Cities, southwest Minnesota could see wind gusts between 35 and 45 mph, with 25 to 35 mph gusts extending into central and eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Relative humidity is expected to drop as low as 15 to 20 percent in southwest areas and remain between 20 and 25 percent elsewhere, a critical threshold for fire growth.
The highest risk zone stretches from Worthington and Marshall through Mankato, Redwood Falls, and toward Hutchinson, where dry grasses and ungreened vegetation act as fuel. The Twin Cities metro, including Minneapolis and St. Paul, falls within an elevated to significant risk area by Saturday afternoon, especially along I-94 and I-35 corridors.
Residents are urged to avoid any outdoor burning, secure trailer chains, and delay yard work that could create sparks. Even small ignitions could spread rapidly under these conditions.
Warm, dry weather continues into early next week, with additional advisories possible if conditions persist.
