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Even with Rain/Snow, Fire Danger Remains High

By KBJR News 1

Even with Rain/Snow, Fire Danger Remains High

April 19, 2012 Updated Apr 19, 2012 at 5:17 PM CDT

From the recent and snow throughout the state, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has temporarily decreased the state's wildfire danger rating.

But it can quickly change without adequate rain.

"Most wildfires occur in the spring, between the time when snow melts and vegetation turns green," said Larry Himanga, DNR wildfire prevention coordinator. "This spring's wildfire season started earlier than normal and fires have been burning with greater intensity. Severe fire conditions have put strain on our wildland firefighters and fire departments."

So far this year, the Minnesota DNR has recorded 533 fires have burned 14,613 acres.

DNR firefighters respond to more than 1,500 wildfires each year, on average. In Minnesota, 98% of wildfires are caused by people, and the number one reason is escaped debris-burning fires.

To read more about this year's high fire conditions

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