Minnesota deploys national guard to help fight wildfires in northern region | Minnesota
Minnesota’s National Guard was activated to help fight wildfires burning in the northern part of the state after the Department of Natural Resources requested additional support.
Gov. Tim Walz authorized the deployment by issuing an executive order declaring a peacetime emergency.
“Unpredictable and fast-moving wildfires are putting Minnesota communities at risk,” Walz said in a statement. “This emergency declaration ensures we can fully mobilize the resources needed to protect lives, support evacuations, and help communities respond and recover. I am grateful to the firefighters, members of the Minnesota National Guard, and all of our first responders who are working around the clock to keep Minnesotans safe.”
Through activation, security members will contribute personnel, equipment and other assistance to support firefighting operations and broader emergency response activities.
Two of the most significant fires burning right now Stewart Road fire In the Flanders fire near Two Harbors and in Crow Wing County, which spanned an estimated 355 acres (145 ha), estimated approximately 1,200 acres. Crews in northern Minnesota faced a challenging Saturday as dry and windy conditions sparked several new wildfire outbreaks.
Sunday afternoon, Minnesota Incident Command System (MNICS) reported It was stated that the Stewart Trail fire was 30% under control.
Mandatory evacuations remained in effect Sunday for residences and businesses northeast of Two Harbors. State Route 61 between Two Harbors and Silver Bay was also closed.
Nathan Stadler, Lake County Sheriff. in question Preliminary damage assessments on Saturday evening showed that the fire destroyed 34 structures, including eight primary buildings such as houses and 26 other secondary structures.
“We know this situation is stressful for residents, visitors and everyone involved, and our teams are working around the clock to keep people safe,” Stadler said at a news conference Saturday. “The crews are doing the best they can. They are working hard to get the fire under control, make the area safe and allow people to return to their homes.”
State officials have warned that changing wind patterns and stronger gusts could complicate containment efforts. Officials also stated that it was a temporary period. flight restriction He remained active and urged people not to use drones near fires.
