The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Fire Weather Clock for much of Minnesota due to high fire risk this weekend, particularly on May 11th. Low humidity and windy conditions are expected to create nearly critical fire hazards. A total of 61 out of 87 counties are affected, including northwest areas such as Beltrami and Marshall. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) advised against outdoor burning, stressing the ease with which fires can ignite and spread.
Since April 1, Minnesota has seen at least 475 wildfires, posing threats to property and human safety. William Glesener, director of Wildfire Operations at the DNR, cautioned the public to avoid attempting to extinguish wildfires themselves. The state’s fire risk is compounded by drought-stressed vegetation and increased wildfire activity from Canada, along with meteorological influences from El Niño.
For the latest fire conditions and restrictions, residents are encouraged to check the DNR’s website.
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