Duluth, MN – Dry air and light winds are combining to create near-critical fire weather conditions across northeast Minnesota this afternoon, prompting officials to urge caution with outdoor burning.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, relative humidity is expected to drop between 20% and 25% in areas with little or no remaining snowpack. These dry conditions, paired with northwest winds of 5 to 10 mph and gusts up to 15 mph, could allow fires to spread rapidly.
Affected areas include Duluth, Hibbing, Ely, International Falls, and the surrounding Iron Range. Temperatures are forecast to remain in the upper 30s to low 40s, increasing surface dryness.
Officials recommend checking local burning restrictions and avoiding any outdoor fire activity today. The warning is in effect through Monday afternoon, March 31, 2025.
While these fire conditions are not classified as red flag, they are considered near-critical—particularly in snow-free regions where ground fuels are exposed. Residents are urged to report smoke or suspicious activity immediately.
Today’s alert follows a trend of early spring fire risks in northern Minnesota, where snow cover has diminished faster than usual.
