Madison, WI – Wisconsinites face heightened wildfire risks as warm, gusty conditions persist. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources urges the public to cease all outdoor burning and indicates a probable suspension of burn permits in several counties. Recent rainfall, while improving some regions, has not eliminated the threat, as several more weeks of fire season remain, and vegetation is largely still desiccated.
According to the Wisconsin DNR, the state has seen 122 wildfires in the past week, scorching nearly 340 acres, marking this period as the most intense for fires this year. The DNR attributes the majority of these blazes to debris burning and power lines. Residents are advised to take precautions, such as avoiding burn piles and reporting any fires immediately to emergency services. The DNR recommends regularly checking for burn restrictions on their website to stay informed.