Wisconsin in state of high fire danger, according to DNR

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources raised the fire danger level in the state until tomorrow, asking people to avoid burning until conditions improved.

In a March 12 news release, the department said an extended period of dry weather led it to raise fire danger in the state to high. The DNR and local fire departments have "responded to over 90 wildfires in the last week, burning an estimated 30 acres" as much of Wisconsin has not received rain in the last 10 days.

According to the DNR wildfire dashboard, two fires were burning in Wisconsin Tuesday morning: A ten-acre fire in Pierce Co. and a 1-acre fire in Adams Co.

"Moisture levels in vegetation are declining and becoming more prone to wildfire starts. This week’s weather conditions will continue to elevate fire danger. The DNR will suspend burn permits in critical areas where the DNR regulates outdoor burning," the release reads.

Other factors influencing the conditions include warm temperatures, low relative humidity and wind.

However, the DNR noted that green-up, or when grasses and other plants grow after winter, has progressed well and winds have remained light. The department said firefighters have handled fires "quickly, minimizing fire growth."

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin facing high fire danger, after spate of dry weather