wildfire danger

Dry conditions are expected to increase the danger of wildfires in Minnesota this weekend.

With fire danger high, Minnesota officials are asking for the public's help in reducing the risk of wildfires. Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Tom Landwehr says Minnesota has "a unique and dangerous combination of fires that are not yet well contained up north," while the southern part of the state has "a serious fire risk."

The Department of Natural Resources is placing temporary burning restrictions on much of northern Minnesota because of fire danger. Monday's forecast calls for warm conditions with low humidity and moderate winds throughout most of Minnesota. While a cold front is expected to move in and lower temperatures, the DNR says winds are likely to increase and keep fire danger high.

A cold and wet month of April has been a benefit when it comes to wildfires here in central Minnesota. But, that could change if we get dry, warm and windy days.

It's the time of year when state fire officials want you to be aware of the dangers of wildfires. Wildfire prevention started in Minnesota after the great Hinckley Fire of 1894 which killed 418 people and destroyed the town of Hinckley. This week is Wildfire Prevention Week.