(KNSI) – Central Minnesota may still be shaking off the last of winter’s snow, but the Department of Natural Resources warns wildfire season is already here.
Karen Harrison, a fire prevention specialist with the Minnesota DNR’s Forestry Division, said spring is consistently the most dangerous time of year for wildfires. “About 75% of all wildfires in Minnesota happen in April and May. And that’s because after the snow melts, there’s a lot of vegetation on the ground that’s either dry or dead. And that is what we would call available fuel for a wildfire to start and spread.”
Parts of central Minnesota saw multiple rounds of snow last week, and many yards remain wet as frost leaves the ground.
The leading cause of wildfires is escaped burn piles, when fires in leaves, grasses and brush get away from the person tending them.
Harrison noted that fuel for wandering embers is everywhere. “Anything that’s kind of dry, available, sticking out can catch fire. And I would say even, because we’re having some sunny days right now, even though it’s chillier out, that sun this time of year is going to melt the snow and dry out that wetness pretty quickly.”
Spring burning restrictions are now in effect in parts of Minnesota, including Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, Morrison and Wright counties.
Harrison urged residents to check the DNR’s burn restriction map before any outdoor burning. Even when debris burning is allowed, she said people should check the day’s fire danger rating before lighting a campfire or fire pit. On very high or extreme fire danger days, she recommended skipping outdoor fires altogether.
Fire danger will remain until there is significant rain or the plants and grasses turn green.
She said anyone who spots a suspected wildfire should move to a safe location and call 911 rather than attempting to address it themselves.
For the latest wildfire conditions, click here.
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