Fire Danger Upgraded To ‘Extreme’

The Minnesota DNR has just upgraded wildfire danger for the northern two-thirds of the state from 'Very High' to 'Extreme.' Stearns, Benton, and Sherburne counties are included in the 'Extreme' rating -- as well as points north. According to the DNR, "the fire situation is explosive."

In Minnesota, 98% of wildfires are caused by people and most happen in spring. Of every five wildfires, one starts from a burning brush pile.

One only need look to Fort McMurray, Alberta in Canada this week to see the horrific potential damage that wildfires can cause. (Those fires about 1000 miles away were responsible for the smoke in the area today.)

Be very careful. Burning permits are on hold statewide, but campfires are still permitted (as of 5/7/16).