Five counties at risk for wildfires; DNR issues Red Flag Warning

MADISON, Wis (WMDX) – A Red Flag Warning has been issued for five Northwest Wisconsin counties, signaling the potential threat of a wildfire outbreak.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has issued the Red Flag Warning for the following counties:

• Bayfield
• Burnett
• Douglas
• Sawyer
• Washburn

The warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The DNR is prohibiting all authorized burnings in areas with elevated fire danger that are within DNR authority. The Departments discourages the use of campfires, outdoor grills, off-road vehicles, chainsaws, and any other devices or conduits that could ignite a fire.

Today’s warning is the latest in the string of numerous wildfires that have broken out across the state. Over 130 acres of land were incinerated in a large wildfire yesterday, May 12, in a blaze that is labeled the “Warthog Fire.” Another fire, deemed the “Swiss Complex Fire”, destroyed an estimated 60 acres and a structure in Burnett County the same day. Details on the aforementioned fires can be read here.

Hazardous conditions remain in effect across Wisconsin. The DNR reports that they have full preparedness to respond to any future incidents, with the Army National Guard supplying two Blackhawk helicopters for mobilization.

To keep track of the danger level throughout the state, visit the DNR’s up-to-date burn map here.