|
|
Wildland fire crews from Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and six local fire departments responded to multiple wildfires along Minnesota Scenic Highway 61 east of Illgen City, Minnesota on Saturday, April 3.
The multiple fires burned an estimated 45 acres and the cause of the fires is under investigation.
Several aircraft, including air tankers and helicopters, provided water and fire-retardant drops to help cool and slow down the wildfires. Aircraft helps support the firefighting crews working hard on the ground to suppress the wildfires.
Highway 61 was closed in both directions from Silver Bay to Illgen City. The highway was closed due to smoky conditions and aircraft activity supporting the fire which included dipping for water out of Lake Superior.
On Sunday, April 4, residents in the area and motorists traveling along Highway 61 saw wildland firefighting crews mopping up lingering fire hotspots. The public was reminded to slow down and follow all state and local laws that protect emergency responders working along roadways to ensure the safety of the firefighters working in the area.
Leave a Reply