New Fire Update: Bear Trap, Camp, Thumb, And Chub Fires

Officials briefed the public in a video posted to Facebook on the morning of July 21st, 2026. In the briefing, they acknowledged that yesterday was a challenging day due to high winds. Winds were southwest 20 to 30 miles per hour. Besides fanning the flames, trees also came down in the burn areas, adding more fuel to the fires.

On Wednesday night and earlier Thursday morning, some rain did fall on the fire areas, but not a substantial amount.

Chub Fire Branch 5 - 344.6 Acres

The Chub fire in Branch 5 is currently at 344.6 acres. There are 8 other fires in the Branch 5 area, with Chub being the largest.

The Echo fire is expected to be contained in the next day or two.

Sioux Fire Branch 1

They needed to disengage from the Sioux fire in Branch 1 due to falling trees from high winds, but they did make some progress. Crews are working today on structure protection south of the Sioux Fire and Echo Road.

Read More: Campfire Ban In Effect For Northern Minnesota

Bear Trap Fire Branch 2 - 37,744 Acres

Branch II fires include the Bear Trap fire, which is at 37,744 acres. They are working on protecting structures and lodges near Big Lake. They continue to brush out the Echo Trail and protect structures south.

Camp Fire Branch 3 4,403 Acres

The Camp Fire in Branch 3 is at 4,403 acres. Their priority now is to look at structures and the fire near Branch III, and prep the area as best they can to prevent the fire from spreading.

Thumb Fire Branch 4 "Looking Good" - 17,089 Acres

The Thumb Fire on Branch IV is "looking good." It's 17,089 acres, and they flew over it yesterday, and it looks like it's not spreading and the burn is entering wet areas.

The rain yesterday did help, but high winds will continue to be a challenge.