The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for four counties in northern Minnesota effective Tuesday, July 14, from noon util 9 p.m. due to extreme fire danger with northwest winds 5 to 10 mph gusting up to 20 mph, relative humidity down to 20% and very warm temperatures in the mid-90s forecast.
Affected counties include Cook, Koochiching, Lake, and St. Louis.
A Red Flag Warning means fires can spread quickly and grow out of control under the predicted weather conditions, including very high temperatures, strong wind gusts, and low relative humidity. Residents should not burn in counties where a Red Flag Warning is in effect and should also check any recent burning they did to ensure the fire is completely out. The DNR will not issue or activate open burning permits for large vegetative debris burning and discourages campfires during the Red Flag Warning. People should use caution when doing activities that can cause sparks or heat near vegetation by securing trailer chains, parking ATVs on gravel or pavement, and using chainsaws or other equipment outside of the Red Flag warning hours.