Minnesota Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Minnesota - May 31, 2026

Overview

Minnesota experienced an elevated fire risk earlier this spring due to a combination of dry conditions, low relative humidity, and strong winds prior to full vegetation green-up. This combination of factors led to significant wildfire activity across central and northern Minnesota throughout May. Fortunately, weather shifts over the last 72 hours have brought cooler temperatures, periodic light rain, and increased humidity, significantly aiding firefighting and recovery efforts across the state.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: There are currently 17 active fires in Minnesota, burning a total of 2,345 acres. Over the last 72 hours, fire crews have maintained full containment on the major wildfires that ignited earlier in the month. Firefighters are now monitoring newer, smaller starts—including the Eagle View Fire and the Spider Fire—while continuing mop-up and patrol operations on older fire perimeters. Major roadways that were previously impacted, such as U.S. Highway 61 along the North Shore, are fully open to the public.

Key Fires:
Flanders Fire: Located east of Breezy Point in the Brainerd Lakes area (Crow Wing County), this fire burned 1,712 acres. It ignited prior to spring green-up and was fueled by dry, bare trees and standing vegetation. It is currently the largest fire of the season in the state and is fully contained.

Eagle Lake Fire: Located near Britt, Minnesota, this fire has burned 616 acres and is currently being closely monitored by local agencies.

Stewart Trail Fire: Located about 3 miles north of Two Harbors in Lake County, this fire burned 356 acres and destroyed 34 structures, posing a significant risk to local property and values. It was fueled by dry undergrowth and boreal pine forest. The fire is now 100% contained. Investigations confirmed the ignition was caused by a tree falling onto a utility power line.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) continues to manage fire risks across the state. Following extreme Red Flag conditions earlier in the month, the DNR restricted open burning permits for large vegetative debris. Residents are urged to check local county restrictions, as campfires and debris burning may still be discouraged in certain northern areas until the spring green-up is fully complete.
Air Quality: With the major fires contained and recent precipitation over the last 72 hours, smoke impacts have significantly decreased across northern and central Minnesota. Air quality has returned to healthy levels for most residents.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Over the last 72 hours, conditions have been cloudy and cooler, with temperatures in the mid-50s and humidity around 63%. Light rain has been present, aiding in suppression and mop-up efforts.
Forecasted Weather: The forecast for the upcoming week includes continued cloudy conditions, periodic light rain, and scattered thunderstorms. Temperatures will range from the mid-50s to low 80s, with humidity remaining relatively high (above 45%). No Red Flag Warnings are currently in effect, a significant improvement from the extreme fire weather seen earlier in May.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are advised to remain cautious with anything that could spark a wildfire. Ensure trailer chains are secured, park ATVs on gravel or pavement, and use chainsaws or other equipment outside of the hottest parts of the day. Always check any recent burning to ensure fires are completely out.
Resource Allocation: Agencies are transitioning from active suppression to mop-up and recovery phases for the major May fires. Local counties are actively assessing the cost of damages and working to help residents return to normal.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Minnesota DNR Wildfire Information: www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.