Wisconsin and Superior issue burn bans amid critical fire danger

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has declared critical fire danger across northern and western Wisconsin from May 14 through the evening of May 16, issuing a Red Flag Warning for May 15. Burning permits are suspended in 31 counties, and officials warn that dry vegetation, low humidity, warming temperatures and gusty winds create very high fire‑risk conditions. The DNR notes that 45% of the nearly 500 wildfires responded to in 2026 were caused by debris burning.

The City and Village of Superior, located on the Minnesota‑Wisconsin border, have implemented a complete burn ban until 9 p.m. on Saturday. Superior Fire Department Battalion Chief Rob Zimmerman cited extremely dry and windy conditions, with abundant dead fuels left over from the previous year, as reasons that any ignition source could spark a wildfire. Campfires remain permitted on the Minnesota side, but all other open burning is prohibited in Superior.

Officials urge the public to avoid outdoor burning, operate equipment during cooler hours, and report any fires immediately.