Wisconsin Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Wisconsin - May 12, 2026

Overview

Wisconsin is experiencing an elevated fire risk due to ongoing dry vegetation, low humidity, warmer temperatures, and breezy conditions. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has rated the fire danger as "Very High" across much of the state, particularly in the northern and central regions. Spring is traditionally the most critical fire season in Wisconsin, as even a few days without precipitation can rapidly dry out hazardous ground fuels.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: The threat of a large wildfire remains extremely high across the state. While there are currently no major large-scale wildfires threatening communities, the potential for new significant wildfires to start and spread rapidly is elevated. So far in 2026, over 280 wildfires have burned more than 700 acres of land. The DNR remains at full staffing and preparedness across the state to respond to any incidents.

Key Fires: Currently, there are no major large-scale active wildfires to report. However, officials warn that smaller fires can spark at any time, with dozens of smaller fires reported statewide over the past week. The primary fuels of concern feeding potential fires are dry grasses, pine needles, and leaf litter, which ignite easily and spread rapidly under the current dry and windy conditions. Additionally, increased fuel in the form of debris, downed trees, and broken limbs from recent severe storms has significantly increased the fire risk across the landscape.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: Due to the severe conditions, the DNR has suspended all agency-issued debris burning permits in 43 of Wisconsin's 72 counties. On the land management front, the Wisconsin Prescribed Fire Council recently hosted a "Sharing the Land" stewardship event on May 9 to connect conservation professionals and private landowners. Additionally, the Council is preparing to host an "Introduction to Prescribed Fire" training in Dallas, WI, on May 16-17 to empower residents with informed decision-making regarding safe land management practices.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: The region is experiencing a stretch of dry, breezy weather. Relative humidity remains low, and winds are elevated, creating hazardous conditions where fires can start fast and spread quickly.
Forecasted Weather: A Red Flag Warning is in effect today, Tuesday, May 12, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM CDT. Strong winds from the northwest at 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph, combined with relative humidity dropping as low as 18%, are creating critical fire weather conditions. The elevated fire danger will continue until the state receives significant, widespread rainfall.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: The DNR strongly urges the public to avoid all outdoor burning activities, including campfires and burn piles, until conditions improve. Embers from any recent fires can easily get out of control if not properly extinguished. Outdoor enthusiasts should also be extra careful with off-road vehicles, chainsaws, or equipment that can create a spark, and are advised to operate machinery early in the morning or late in the day.
Resource Allocation: The DNR is at full staffing and preparedness across the state to respond to any incidents. Local volunteer fire departments are also on high alert and have been instrumental in keeping recent small fires under control.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
Wisconsin DNR Fire Danger and Burn Restrictions: apps.dnr.wi.gov/forestryapps/burnrestriction
Wisconsin DNR WisBURN Dashboard: dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/ForestFire/WisBURN
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.