Minnesota Wildfire Forces Evacuations as Hazardous Smoke Spreads Into the US
Christy Bowen
1 hour agoA rash of wildfires burning in northern Minnesota and Ontario, Canada, has triggered evacuations in the region. Here is a look at these fires and how they are impacting air quality thousands of miles away.
Over a Dozen Wildfires Prompt Evacuations in Northern Minnesota
Evacuations are underway in portions of Minnesota and Canada as wildfires pop up across the region. The evacuations are concentrated near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, the Superior National Forest had confirmed 17 active wildfires as of Tuesday. Two of these fires have jumped the border into Canada. The Camp Fire is spreading quickly in a zone northeast of Ely, Minnesota, thanks to the dry and unseasonably hot weather.
The Lake County Sheriff's Office expanded evacuation orders on Tuesday, issuing a "GO" warning near the Cloquet Line north of the community of Ely. Deputies were going door-to-door to tell residents to leave immediately. At least 17 people were rescued as the flames spread quickly.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is calling on the state's National Guard troops to help with the evacuation efforts. No injuries have been reported as a result of the fires.