battled a total of 17 wildfires Friday

(Duluth, MN) — Emergency crews battled a total of 17 wildfires Friday across St. Louis County as dry conditions and strong winds created dangerous fire weather. County officials activated the Emergency Operations Center to coordinate response efforts. Officials say several fires were likely caused by residents burning cardboard, while others were sparked by trees knocking down power lines. Wind gusts reached up to 40 miles per hour during the height of the fire danger.

Authorities now say all eight of the initially reported fires have been brought under control, though mop-up operations and monitoring continue. Residents are still being urged to avoid any outdoor burning due to ongoing dry conditions.

Any fires that start may spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for 15 counties in parts of central and northeast Minnesota today, May 16, due to extreme fire risk conditions.

Affected counties include Cass, Crow Wing, Aitkin, Carlton, St. Louis, Pine, Otter Tail, Wadena, Grant, Douglas, Todd, Morrison, Mille Lacs, Kanabec, Benton,

A Red Flag Warning means fires can spread quickly and grow out of control under the predicted weather conditions, including low relative humidity and high winds. Residents should not burn in counties where a Red Flag Warning is in effect and should also check any recent burning they did to ensure the fire is completely out. The DNR will not issue or activate open burning permits for large vegetative debris burning and discourages campfires during the Red Flag Warning. People should use caution when doing activities that can cause sparks or heat near vegetation by securing trailer chains, parking ATVs on gravel or pavement, and using chainsaws or other equipment outside of the Red Flag warning hours.

Red Flag Warnings are evolving situations. Visit the National Weather Service (weather.gov) for updates.

To receive text updates on current fire risk and open burning restrictions in Minnesota text “FIRE” to 66468.