Red Flag Warnings Issued In 13 Minnesota Counties Due To Extreme Fire Risk

Weather conditions on Sunday have forced the National Weather Service to issue a Red Flag Warning for 13 counties in Minnesota due to extreme fire risks.

The National Weather Service notes that a Red Flag Warning means fires can spread quickly and easily progress out of control under the predicted weather conditions, including low relative humidity and gusty winds.

Therefore, residents within the impacted counties should not burn brush and yard debris. They should also be sure to check recent campfires and any recent burning for lingering heat to ensure they’re out cold. Furthermore, use extra caution with outdoor activities that could produce heat or a spark.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will not issue or activate open burning permits for large vegetative debris burning during the Red Flag Warning, and campfires are discouraged.

“Any spark could become a wildfire under Red Flag conditions,” said Karen Harrison, DNR wildfire prevention specialist.

The Red Flag Warnings are effective Sunday, March 3, from 12:00 p.m. through 6:00 p.m. in the following counties:

• Blue Earth
• Dodge
• Faribault
• Freeborn
• Houston
• Martin
• Mower
• Fillmore
• Olmsted
• Steele
• Waseca
• Watonwan
• Winona

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Because Red Flag Warnings are evolving situations, Minnesota residents should always check for updates and to see if restrictions have been put in place in their county.

For information and daily updates on current fire risks and open burning restrictions, restrictions, visit the statewide fire danger and burning restrictions page of the DNR website.

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

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