The Michigan Department of Natural Resources continues to battle two wildfires in the Upper Peninsula, but Mother Nature has given them some help.
According to an update from the DNR on Monday evening, cooler temperatures and higher humidity have helped calm fire activity for The Ridge Fire in Marquette County and The Craig Lake Fire near Craig Lake State Park.
See photos from the DNR of the wildfires in the video below
According to the DNR, the Ridge Fire is estimated to be 450 acres and 20% contained, as of 7:30 p.m. Monday.
Officials said the rugged terrain that the fire is burning in is presenting challenges to suppression efforts. The DNR said firefighters are focusing on gaining access to areas where they can attack the fire, and establish containment lines.
Additionally, the "Ready, Set, Go" status for residents on North Basin Drive has shifted back to "ready" status.
Residents are encouraged to continue to do the following:
- Remove dry brush and debris within 30 to 100 feet of your home so firefighters can protect it
- Plan an evacuation route
- Pack an emergency bag including medications, important documents, and pet supplies
- Monitor information from the DNR and Marquette County Emergency Management on social media and local news
There has been an evacuation center set up for residents at the Negaunee Township Hall at 42 East State Hwy M-35 in Negaunee.
Two Fire Boss aircraft from Minnesota — which scoop up water to drop on the fire — are assisting, as well as an MSP helicopter. There are also 34 DNR firefighters on the ground working to establish a dozer line.
The Craig Lake Fire grew on Monday and is now around 400 acres and 25% contained. The fire is in an area with rugged terrain and in a very remote area, according to the DNR. Portions of the fire are only accessible by foot.
The wind also shifted, according to the DNR, which is bringing heavy wildfire smoke to communities south of both fires, and an Air Quality Alert is in effect.
“We’re grateful for the changing weather conditions that have allowed us to make some containment progress on both fires,” said Nate Stearns, DNR incident commander. “Public safety and firefighter safety remain our top priority.”
Earlier this week, the DNR said that the fire risk was high across the Upper Peninsula and urged people to be careful when burning.
“Grasses have dried out and leaves are starting to drop, which adds a layer of fuel that can feed and speed the spread of a wildfire,” said Paul Rogers, fire prevention specialist with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. “Make sure to check for a burn permit before you burn any yard debris and be careful of heat or sparks from equipment and off-road vehicles."
