8 Minnesota Counties Are Facing Extreme Fire Risks On Monday

Weather conditions on Monday have forced the National Weather Service to issue a Red Flag Warning for 8 Minnesota counties due to extreme fire risks.

Red Flag Warnings mean that 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.

“When fire risk is this high it’s important to be careful with anything that could spark a wildfire,” said Karen Harrison, DNR wildfire prevention specialist.

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The Red Flag Warnings are effective Monday, March 11, from 1:00 p.m. through 7:00 p.m. in the following counties:

• Cottonwood
• Jackson
• Lincoln
• Lyon
• Murray
• Nobles
• Pipestone
• Rock

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Because Red Flag Warnings are evolving situations, Minnesota residents should always check with the National Weather Service 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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