The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is warning residents about an increased risk of wildfires as dry weather and strong winds persist across the state. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources release, more than 50 wildfires have burned about 20 acres in October, with nearly all incidents caused by human activity. Officials are urging residents to check fire danger levels before burning outdoors.
The U.S. Drought Monitor reports that most of Wisconsin is currently abnormally dry or experiencing moderate drought due to below-average rainfall in September. These conditions make the state especially vulnerable to wildfires during the post-leaf-drop and pre-winter period. Debris burning remains the leading cause of recent fires.
To reduce risks, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources advises residents to completely extinguish campfires, place ashes in metal containers, and mix water with embers until cool. The agency emphasizes that these steps are vital to prevent accidental ignitions until snowfall lowers the fire danger.
