Wildfire Burning on Island in Wood Lake in BWCA Wilderness Near Ely
By Paddle and Portage staff
On Tuesday, Sept. 10, around 11 a.m. a fire was detected on an island of Wood Lake, which is located north of County Road 18, within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness of the Superior National Forest.
The fire is approximately 3 to 5 acres and is burning in timber with a heavy, dead balsam fir component. It is suspected to be human caused; however, an official fire investigation has not occurred yet. Initial aircraft fire size up showed the fire creeping, smoldering, and burning in deep duff. The fire spotted off the island to a ridgetop and began to torch and exhibit active fire behavior. The fire area and surrounding landscape has thick vegetation and a significant amount of spruce budworm infested balsam fir.
As of this morning (Sept. 11), the fire was creeping, smoldering, and holding in place due to good overnight relative humidity levels and light to no winds. Above average temperatures and drought conditions continue across the Superior National Forest and fire area.
Increased winds are expected for Thursday and Friday.
The Superior National forest is utilizing aircraft to cool the fire and initiate suppression tactics with the highest likelihood of success. Firefighters are working on full suppression tactics, but ground conditions and access are difficult. Additional aircraft have been ordered to assist with the fire as they become available.
BWCA Wilderness entry point #26 permit holders have been contacted due to safety concerns. This is a developing event, and the public is asked to stay away from the area and choose alternate routes.
For the safety of firefighting resources, no drones are allowed near the fire area.
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