Dry Weather Elevates Fire Conditions

Residents across the state are being urged to use extreme caution during this dry spell until the fire weather improves. 

Humidity has been low and winds high, with minimal precipitation. These conditions have kept most of Wisconsin, including Door County, in a very high fire-danger category. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the National Weather Service and other partners remind Wisconsinites to remain on alert because of elevated fire-weather conditions.

Fires can start and spread quickly in these conditions, and weather conditions can also change frequently and become dangerous. The DNR asks residents to avoid all outdoor burning, including limiting campfires and extinguishing and disposing of cigarettes properly. Outdoor enthusiasts should use caution with off-road vehicles or equipment that can give off a spark and start a fire. 

There have already been 250 wildfires reported in the state so far this year, burning more than 1,000 acres. That includes a wildfire in Menomonee Falls that burned nearly 450 acres of marshland on Friday. It has since been contained.

Fire officials anticipate a slightly longer than average fire season because of how early the snow melted around the state.