DNR Says Wildfire Threat Growing in MN

ST. PAUL (AP) -- State authorities say the wildfire threat is growing in Minnesota.

The fire danger is rated extreme in far northwestern Minnesota and very high or high in much of northern Minnesota. And the Department of Natural Resources says the fire danger is likely to hit high in much of central and southern Minnesota this week because of the hot, dry, windy weather in the forecast.

A Fire Weather Watch is in effect for southern Minnesota on Thursday, with the possibility of going to a Red Flag Warning.

In response, the DNR is expanding its available support resources, including firefighting aircraft and heavy equipment. It's also restricting burning permits in dry areas.

As people head to the lakes and woods for Labor Day weekend, fire managers urge them to keep campfires small.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)