St. Croix Tribal Emergency Management

05/15/2026

A Red Flag Warning is in effect Friday, May 15, from noon to 9 p.m. for portions of northern Wisconsin, including Douglas, Bayfield, Washburn, Burnett, Sawyer, Ashland, Iron, Rusk, Barron, Polk and Vilas counties.

Dry vegetation, low humidity, warm temperatures and gusty winds are creating dangerous wildfire conditions. The Wisconsin DNR has suspended burning permits in 31 counties, with additional restrictions possible as conditions worsen.

Residents are asked to avoid campfires, debris burning and other outdoor fires until conditions improve. Sparks from equipment, off-road vehicles and trailer chains can also quickly start wildfires in dry conditions.

The DNR has responded to nearly 500 wildfires statewide so far in 2026, with nearly half caused by debris burning.

Residents should report fires immediately by calling 911 and monitor current fire danger and burning restrictions at: https://apps.dnr.wi.gov/wisburn/ #/

05/04/2026

VERY HIGH FIRE DANGER ALERT & BURN SUSPENSION IN EFFECT

Due to dry conditions, low humidity, and elevated winds, our area is currently under high fire danger. A suspension of burning is now in effect until further notice.

What this means:

No outdoor burning of any kind

No fire pits, campfires, or debris burning

Avoid activities that could create sparks (e.g., welding, fireworks, etc.)

Even a small spark can quickly turn into a dangerous wildfire under these conditions.

Jade Merrill, Emergency Management Coordinator

04/22/2026

Burnett County is currently under a RED FLAG warning until 8pm tonight. Forecasted with dry weather and winds. Absolutely no burning is allowed.

04/22/2026

Fire weather conditions are critical today for portions of northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin. We are seeing wind gusts from the south at 20–30 mph paired with relative humidity as low as 20–25%. These factors mean that any fire that starts can spread rapidly.

04/22/2026

Help us keep our communities safe! ⛈️ The National Weather Service in Duluth has released the 2026 Skywarn Spotter Training Schedule. These free classes cover thunderstorm science and essential severe weather safety. Whether you prefer an in-person session in cities like Hinckley, Brainerd, or Grand Rapids, or a virtual webinar, there is an option for everyone.

Find the full schedule and register at: https://www.weather.gov/dlh/skywarn

04/17/2026

04/16/2026

WISCONSIN STATEWIDE TORNADO DRILLS CANCELED!

The annual statewide tornado drills for Wisconsin scheduled for Thursday, April 16, 2026, are being canceled in light of recent severe weather events that have impacted communities across Wisconsin. There will not be an alternate date for these drills.

Learn more: https://wem.wi.gov/wisconsin-tornado-drills-canceled-2026/

04/15/2026

Tonight's storms could bring heavy rainfall to some areas, which could bring flash flooding.⛈️

Flooding is harder to see at night - stay alert!

✅ Move to higher ground if water rises.
✅ Do not drive or walk in floodwaters.
✅ Stay informed and weather aware.

04/14/2026

Day 2 of Severe Weather Awareness Week begins with Lightning Safety!

We do not issue warnings for lightning, however all thunderstorms do contain lightning. When thunder roars, go indoors! More info at https://weather.gov/mpx/swawday2