Minnesota Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Minnesota - May 20, 2026

Overview

Minnesota is experiencing an elevated fire risk driven by a combination of unusually dry conditions, low relative humidity, and recent fierce wind gusts. These extreme fire weather conditions fueled a sudden outbreak of fast-moving wildfires across northern and central Minnesota over the weekend, prompting Governor Tim Walz to declare a peacetime emergency and mobilize the Minnesota National Guard. The current Preparedness Level for Minnesota is 4, indicating that state and local wildland fire resources are heavily committed to managing incident objectives.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: There are currently multiple active wildfires in northern Minnesota requiring coordinated local, state, and national support. Firefighters, supported by the National Guard and aircraft, have made significant progress over the last 72 hours in containing the most severe blazes. While the immediate threat has decreased and evacuation orders are being lifted, crews remain engaged in mop-up operations and patrolling for hotspots.

Key Fires:

• Flanders Fire: Located near Flanders Lake in Crow Wing County, this fire started on May 16, 2026, and has burned approximately 1,666 acres. It is currently 60% contained. Fueled by dry woodlands, timber, and brush, the fast-moving fire forced evacuations that were recently lifted as of Tuesday. Firefighters are currently managing smoldering stumps and hot spots. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has identified the fire's origin point and people of interest, suspecting an escaped campfire.
• Stewart Trail Fire: Located approximately three miles north of Two Harbors in Lake County, this fire ignited on May 15, 2026, due to a downed power line. It has burned 355 acres and is currently 62% contained. The blaze destroyed 34 structures, including eight primary homes. Highway 61 has reopened, and evacuated residents are being escorted back to assess property damage. Crews continue to use aircraft and ground equipment to secure containment lines.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The Minnesota DNR has implemented strict spring burning restrictions across dozens of counties. The DNR is not issuing or activating permits for the open burning of brush or yard waste in these restricted areas. Escaped fire from burning vegetative debris is the number one cause of wildfires in Minnesota, and residents are urged to use alternatives like composting or chipping. Campfires are highly discouraged during periods of elevated fire danger.
Air Quality: Heavy smoke from the wildfires has impacted areas along Highway 61 and the Brainerd Lakes region. Additionally, strong winds recently brought blowing dust from severe droughts in Montana, triggering air quality alerts in northwestern Minnesota. Residents with respiratory conditions should continue to monitor local air quality and limit outdoor exposure if smoke settles.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Today brings sunny and cooler conditions with high temperatures near 61°F and relative humidity recovering to around 48%. These calmer conditions are providing much-needed relief to firefighting crews.
Forecasted Weather: A shift in the weather pattern is expected over the next 72 hours. Thursday will bring mostly cloudy skies, followed by a significant chance of rain showers on Friday and Saturday. This incoming moisture will greatly aid ongoing suppression and mop-up efforts. However, officials warn that fine fuels like grass and twigs can dry out quickly if winds return before the rain arrives.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents returning to evacuation zones should remain cautious of smoldering debris and weakened trees. The DNR is asking residents in the Flanders Lake area to review trail or doorbell cameras recorded between May 15 and May 17 to assist with the ongoing fire investigation. Furthermore, the public is strictly reminded that flying drones near fire areas is prohibited, as it grounds critical firefighting aircraft.
Resource Allocation: A MNICS Type 3 Incident Management Team has been coordinating the response, alongside local agencies and the Minnesota National Guard, who are providing staffing and equipment support. As containment increases, incident management is preparing to transition duties back to local authorities.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fire Danger and Burning Restrictions: mndnr.gov/forestry/fire
Minnesota Incident Command System (MNICS): mnics.org
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.