Northern Minnesota is combating three fast-moving wildfires that have collectively forced dozens of evacuations, reduced homes to ash, and placed hundreds of lives and properties in peril.
The blazes—named the Camp House, Jenkins Creek, and Munger Shaw fires—have spread rapidly through forestland in St. Louis County and surrounding areas. Officials report that the fires are currently 0% contained.
The largest of the wildfires, the Jenkins Creek Fire, has already consumed more than 20,000 acres southeast of Hoyt Lakes. Meanwhile, the Camp House Fire, burning near Brimson, has destroyed at least 146 homes, cabins, and outbuildings across nearly 15,000 acres. The Munger Shaw Fire, south of the other two, is the smallest but still threatening nearby properties.
Evacuations, emergency declarations
Evacuations were ordered for residents near Pioneer Lake and Morley Beach Road. Many evacuees have sought refuge in makeshift shelters or with family and friends elsewhere in the state. Roads have been closed across several rural routes to allow emergency personnel access to fire lines.
In response to the escalating crisis, Governor Tim Walz activated the Minnesota National Guard on Tuesday. Federal aid was also requested, with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and U.S. Forest Service sending air tankers, smokejumpers, and support teams to assist state crews.
View on Threads
Investigations underway
While official causes of the fires remain under investigation, early reports suggest the Jenkins Creek Fire may have started from a discarded cigarette, while the Camp House Fire could be tied to an unattended campfire—a violation of statewide burn restrictions.
State officials emphasized that the area has been under a Red Flag Warning since last week due to extreme fire risk conditions, which include record-high temperatures—some up to 30 degrees above average—combined with sustained winds and dangerously low humidity.
Health impacts and air quality concerns
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued air quality alerts for much of the state as smoke from the fires pushes southward into the Twin Cities and beyond. Experts predict 2025 will be an active wildfire smoke season, with as many as 16 days of reduced air quality.
Residents are advised to stay indoors, especially vulnerable groups such as children, seniors, and those with respiratory conditions.
