MADISON, Wis. — Much of Wisconsin is under an elevated fire danger this week due to an extended period of dry weather, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
The DNR said warm temperatures, wind and very low humidity are contributing factors to the danger. The state has also not seen rain in the past 10 days — and rain that was received before that was minimal.
In the last week, the DNR has responded to over 90 wildfires that burned an estimated 30 acres. The DNR said crews have been successful in attacking those fires quickly and minimizing the spread due to a statewide green-up and lower winds.
However, moisture levels in the vegetation are declining, said the DNR. That means they’ll be more prone to wildfires.
The DNR said they’ll be suspending burn permits in “critical areas.”
Wisconsinites are encouraged to keep an eye on changing fire danger conditions this week, which you can find here.
DNR officials said to avoid burning until the state gets some good rain and to conduct any activities that could cause sparks, such as woodcutting or lawn mowing, early in the morning or later in the day. This will help avoid peak burn times.
Officials said that while there are some chances of light precipitation over the next few days, it’s unlikely to be significant enough to provide relief.