Ely, Minnesota – Firefighters continue battling multiple wildfires across northeastern Minnesota as hot, dry and windy weather increases the potential for additional fire activity across the Superior National Forest and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
According to the U.S. Forest Service–Superior National Forest, 16 active wildfires are burning across the forest, including four fires inside the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The Minnesota Incident Command Team (MNICS) assumed command of 10 of the fires Sunday, coordinating suppression efforts alongside the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and other agencies.
The largest active fires include the Thumb Fire, estimated at about 500 acres, and the Bear Trap Fire, which has grown to approximately 85 acres within the BWCAW. The Wolfpack Fire is estimated at 61 acres, while the Sioux Fire has reached roughly 59 acres. Aircraft are supporting suppression efforts on several wilderness fires where remote terrain limits ground access.
Crews have made significant progress on several smaller fires. The Camp Fire near Cloquet Lake is now 100% contained, while the Fools Gold Fire is approximately 60% contained and the 614 Fire is about 50% contained. Firefighters continue constructing containment lines and protecting nearby resources.
Many of the fires were sparked by lightning following storms that crossed the region earlier this month. Since then, persistent heat, low humidity, gusty southwest winds and a lack of recent rainfall have created conditions favorable for rapid fire growth.
The National Weather Service forecasts highs climbing into the mid-90s, with gusts reaching 25 mph and fire weather concerns continuing. An Extreme Heat Warning, Fire Weather Watch and Red Flag Warning are in effect for portions of the region.
Forest-wide fire restrictions remain in place, and some closures continue within the BWCAW to protect visitors and firefighting operations. Officials also remind the public that flying drones near active wildfires is illegal because they can force firefighting aircraft to suspend operations.
Additional wildfire updates, closures and restrictions are expected as crews continue working to contain the fires under challenging weather conditions
