Wisconsin Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Wisconsin - May 11, 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. 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. 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.

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 DNR recently revived its historic mascot, "Torchy Timberloss," to educate the public on the ecological benefits of safe, planned prescribed burns. These low-intensity burns are crucial for removing invading brush, decreasing leaf litter, and promoting the growth of native, fire-dependent vegetation. Additionally, the Wisconsin Prescribed Fire Council hosted a "Sharing the Land" stewardship event over the weekend on May 9 to connect conservation professionals and private landowners.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: The region is experiencing a stretch of dry, breezy weather. Relative humidity remains low, and winds are elevated, with gusts expected to reach up to 35 mph, creating hazardous conditions where fires can start fast and spread quickly.
Forecasted Weather: The elevated fire danger will continue until the state receives significant, widespread rainfall. Forecasts indicate a chance of light rain moving into parts of the state by Tuesday, which may help moderate the fire danger, but conditions remain critical in the immediate term.

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 recent fires can easily get out of control if not properly extinguished. Residents are also advised to secure dragging trailer chains to prevent sparks along roadways.
Resource Allocation: Firefighters and emergency crews are fully staffed and ready to respond. To assist them, the public should operate equipment—such as chainsaws, off-road vehicles, and lawnmowers—only early in the morning or late in the day to avoid creating sparks during peak burn hours.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Wisconsin DNR Fire Danger and Reports: dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/ForestFire

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.