Minnesota Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Minnesota - August 20, 2026

Overview

Minnesota is experiencing an elevated fire risk, particularly in the northern and northeastern regions, due to persistent dryness and severe drought conditions. The National Significant Wildland Fire Potential Outlook indicates that northern Minnesota is projected to retain an "above-normal" fire potential through the rest of the summer and deep into the fall. A peacetime state of emergency remains in effect regarding the ongoing fires and is expected to continue into mid-September.
The current National Preparedness Level is 5, with the Minnesota Preparedness Level at 3, indicating that significant state and national resources are heavily committed to the region.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: There are currently multiple active fires in Minnesota, primarily within the Superior National Forest and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The "July Lightning fires" have burned a total of 74,023 acres, with 65,128 acres in the U.S. and 8,895 in Canada. Firefighters are making progress with containment lines, hose setups, and tactical operations, though some areas remain remote and challenging to access.

Key Fires:
Bear Trap Fire: Located in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, this lightning-caused fire is the largest in the state, having burned 38,386 acres and is currently 44% contained. It is fueled by timber, brush, and grass. Firefighters have successfully halted the fire's spread in key areas, though hot spots and residual heat remain.

Thumb Fire: Burning near the international border, this lightning-caused fire has burned 18,134 acres and is currently 48% contained. It continues to burn through timber and slash. Firefighters are working to secure the perimeter despite resource constraints.

Sioux Fire: Currently at 6,903 acres and 38% contained, this fire continues to burn in remote northern areas.

Camp Fire: Currently at 4,361 acres and 97% contained. Crews have made significant progress over the last 72 hours in securing the fireline and mopping up.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: Elevated burning restrictions are in effect in Cook, Lake, and northern St. Louis counties. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has stated that no open burning permits will be issued or activated in these areas. Campfires are strongly discouraged and are not allowed for dispersed, remote, or backcountry camping. Fireworks are restricted outside of city limits.
Air Quality: The Minnesota fires, combined with Canadian wildfires, have contributed to widespread air quality issues across the Great Lakes region. Residents should monitor local air quality forecasts, as smoke from smoldering fires may continue to impact the area.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Recent timely rains have helped dampen the wildfires and slow their spread, allowing firefighters to establish control lines. However, northern Minnesota remains very dry, and precipitation quickly evaporates from the vegetation.
Forecasted Weather: Near-critical fire weather conditions are forecast across much of Northern Minnesota. Red Flag Warnings have been issued periodically for counties including Cook, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, and St. Louis due to gusty northwest winds (15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph) and low relative humidity dropping below 25%. A strong drying trend is expected, meaning any new or existing fires can spread quickly and grow out of control under the predicted weather conditions.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents and visitors are advised to be mindful of fire traffic and potential smoke impacts. While some BWCAW entry points along the Echo Trail are reopening this week (such as Entry Point 9 and 77), travelers should use caution and expect delays. It is crucial to heed local warnings, as conditions could change and reopening plans may be adjusted if wildfire activity increases.
Resource Allocation: Over 900 personnel have been working to contain the fires. Agencies are focusing on both firefighting operations and recovery efforts. Tragically, a wildland firefighter from Alaska passed away earlier this month while responding to the Bear Trap Fire, highlighting the challenging and dangerous conditions crews are facing.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR): www.dnr.state.mn.us
Superior National Forest Updates: inciweb.wildfire.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.