The Morrison County Sheriff's Office has reported a grass fire that began on the evening of April 16th, placing structures in Hillman Township at potential risk. The fire, situated between Partridge Road and 355th Avenue, was first reported at around 9:07 p.m., as noted in a release from the local authorities.
In response to the growing threat, an Everbridge alert was issued early this morning at 3:20 a.m., cautioning residents of the 'running swamp fire.' Heading northwest from 123rd Street toward Partridge Road, locals have been urged to contact dispatch if any buildings or lives were in danger, indicating the seriousness of the blaze that the firefighters, still burning from their nighttime toil, were combating.
As of the latest update, at 11:17 a.m., the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has reported that approximately 800 acres have been consumed by the flames, with containment efforts reaching roughly 70%. The Sheriff's Office relayed this information publicly, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the firefighting efforts and the concurrent investigation.
The Morrison County Sheriff's Office was not alone in addressing this emergent crisis. Assistance came from the MN DNR and the Pierz Fire Department, both of which have played crucial roles in the containment of the fire. Their support was not taken for granted, as the local sheriff's office made sure to express appreciation for the invaluable aid rendered in these pressing circumstances, showcased by a smoky horizon that the firefighters, alongside their DNR colleagues, raced against time to clear.
