(WFRV) – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the National Weather Service has issues a Red Flag Warning for the second day in a row this week for parts of northern Wisconsin from noon to 9 p.m. This means there is a very high risk of wildfires.
Hot, dry and windy weather makes it easy for fires to start and spread quickly. According to a press release from the DNR, the land is very dry because there hasn’t been much rain.
UPDATE: 80-acre fire contained in Juneau County, dozens return to homes after being evacuated
The DNR says Bayfield, Burnett, Douglas, Sawyer and Washburn counties are affected and no burning is allowed today even if you have a DNR burn permit.
Residents should be careful with campfires, grills, cigarettes, chainsaws and off-road vehicles. These things can cause sparks that lead to fires. The DNR is also urging that any recent fires be checked to make sure they are completely out.
The DNR has already dealt with over 100 wildfires in the last week, many in the same areas under today’s warning.
Beyond the Forecast: What are ‘Fire Weather Watches’ and ‘Red Flag Warnings’?
The release states that yesterday two large wildfires broke out. The Warthog Fire in Juneau County burned through 130 acres and resulted in evacuations. The Swiss Complex Fire in Burnett County had two fires that burned through 60 acres and one structure before being controlled.
Yesterday, the DNR issued Red Flag Warnings for 21 northern Wisconsin counties.
Firefighters report that they will be on high alert and ready to respond since weather conditions are predicted to stay dry and dangerous. The Army National Guard and two Blackhawk helicopters are also on standby.
Fore up-to-date fire danger levels, wildfire reports, and burning restrictions, visit the Wisconsin DNR website.
