Three Wildfires Are Raging in Minnesota– Here’s Where and How Much Has Burned

As of Wednesday, May 14, three major wildfires continue to burn uncontained in northeastern Minnesota, collectively scorching over 35,000 acres so far and threatening communities across St. Louis County.

READ MORE: Minnesota Farmer Dies in Grain Bin Mishap

The fires, Camp House, Jenkins Creek, and Munger Shaw, are being fueled by dry conditions and strong winds. Evacuation orders are in place, and firefighters are working hard to get them under control.

St. Louis County Sheriff's Office Divisions of Emergency Management has shared detailed maps of each fire. Here is a breakdown of what is being reported about each wildfire so far:

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Camp House Fire (Brimson, MN)

• Location: Ault Township, approximately 40 miles north of Duluth
• Acres burned: Approximately 15,000
• Structures destroyed: 144
• Containment: 0%
• Cause: Believed to be an unattended campfire

The Camp House Fire started Sunday, May 11 and is the largest and most destructive of the three, having destroyed 144 structures, including homes and cabins. Evacuation orders remain in effect, and Highway 44 is closed between County Road 16 and Two Harbors. Over 200 firefighters, along with air support, are reportedly battling the blaze, which continues to spread north, east, and west of Brimson.

Jenkins Creek Fire (Near Hoyt Lakes, MN)

• Location: Approximately 15 miles southeast of Hoyt Lakes
• Acres burned: Over 20,000
• Structures destroyed: At least 2
• Containment: 0%
• Cause: Suspected discarded cigarette along Highway 16

The Jenkins Creek Fire started Monday, May 12 is rapidly expanding in the Superior National Forest; with concerns it may reach more populated areas. Pre-evacuation warnings are in effect along County Highway 11. The fire is moving north and west.

Munger Shaw Fire (Cotton Township, MN)

• Location: About 25 miles southwest of the Camp House Fire
• Acres burned: Approximately 1,600
• Structures destroyed: Information not yet available
• Containment: 0%
• Cause: Believed to have started from a hay bale fire

The Munger Shaw Fire started Monday, May 12 and is the smallest but still poses significant threats. Evacuation orders have been issued for areas including Pioneer Lake and Morley Beach Road. Road closures are in effect, and firefighting efforts continue as the fire slowly moves north.

Minnesota Wildfire Conditions and Response

A Red Flag Warning remains in effect across much of Minnesota due to high winds and low humidity, creating dangerous fire conditions.

Governor Tim Walz has activated the Minnesota National Guard to assist in firefighting efforts.

Over 200 firefighters, along with air support including water-scooping planes and helicopters, are actively working to get the wildfires under control.

Residents can monitor evacuation zones and fire perimeters through the St. Louis County wildfire map. Authorities urge residents to stay alert, follow evacuation orders, and avoid affected areas to ensure safety.