Govind Tekale
Three major wildfires in northeastern Minnesota have burned over 32,000 acres, forcing residents to evacuate and destroying at least 146 structures. The fires, which started between May 11-12, remain completely uncontained as firefighters battle challenging weather conditions.
The largest blazes, now managed together as the Brimson Complex, include the Camp House fire near Brimson (14,979 acres) and the Jenkins Creek fire southeast of Hoyt Lakes (15,571 acres). A third fire, the Munger Shaw blaze, has burned about 1,600 acres southwest of the complex.
The Camp House fire, which started May 11, has 200 personnel working to contain it, while the Jenkins Creek fire, which began May 12, has 23 firefighters with more joining today. Crews are actively working to slow the fires and secure perimeters, including searching for hot spots in already burned areas.
Dead trees killed by spruce budworm insects have created dangerous fire conditions. These dry, dead trees, particularly balsam fir and white spruce, catch fire easily and help flames spread quickly through the forest canopy. Recent hot, windy weather has led to extreme fire behavior, including crown torching.
Dozer crews are building containment lines on the Camp House fire’s south end, while air support has dropped water to protect a communications tower. At the Jenkins Creek fire, protecting the Skibo community is a priority, with specialized “hotshot” crews now on site. The Munger Shaw fire has seen slower growth due to recent lower temperatures and higher humidity.
“We want to thank all of our public safety responders,” Sheriff Ramsay said. “Our communities have been overwhelming in providing support for them with water and food… The help really will need to come down the road for the people that have lost their homes.”
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Mandatory evacuations remain in place across parts of St. Louis and Lake Counties. Several major roads are closed, including eastbound Highway 16 at Camp 26 Trail Track and County Highway 44 to northbound traffic. The Superior National Forest has closed portions of the Laurentian Ranger District to protect public safety.
The National Weather Service forecasts thunderstorms with possible rain between a quarter to half-inch by sunset. Winds are expected to be easterly at 10-20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. While the precipitation could help firefighting efforts, the storms might bring challenging erratic winds.
The causes of all three fires remain under investigation. The Minnesota DNR is leading the investigation into the Camp House fire, where suspects have been identified.
Those wanting to help are asked to direct donations to the Red Cross or Salvation Army rather than sending supplies directly to firefighters.
For fire information, the public can call 218-206-6805 between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m.
