Firefighters in Michigan's Upper Peninsula are battling several wildfires that have burned nearly 1,400 acres combined as warmer-than-normal temperatures and gusty winds continue to fuel fire danger in the region.
The fires, grouped as the Rugged Terrain Complex, include the Ridge Fire located 10 miles north of Marquette, the Craig Lake Fire, and the Black River Fire near Wakefield in Gogebic County, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. As of Wednesday evening, each fire was at least 50% contained.
Paul Rogers, fire prevention specialist for the DNR, cautioned that outdoor activities and seasonal work are increasing the danger. "If you're at deer camp for archery season, camping, riding ORVs or working outdoors, be aware of the fire danger," Rogers said. "It's warmer than normal, and fallen leaves and dry grasses increase the risk of a spark from equipment or an ember from a campfire igniting a wildfire."
The DNR recommended that people obtain permits before conducting controlled burns, keep water sources nearby while burning, prevent equipment from overheating, and ensure campfires are fully extinguished before leaving.