MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – With dry conditions across the region and high winds, with low humidity expected to continue, much of the U.P. is under a wildfire red flag warning. The public is asked to use common sense and not to start any fires outdoors, do not park on dry grass, or throw out any cigarette butts. According to John Pepin of the Michigan DNR, the combination of the current weather conditions puts us at an increased risk for wildfires.
“We’ve got high temperatures, gusty winds, low humidities, and dry conditions. So all of those things usually equate to what they call red flag warnings, or extreme fire danger warnings. So you have a lot of fire staff throughout the state on standby,” said Pepin.
Firefighters are currently battling a small fire in Dickinson County, along Carney Lake Road. The fire has claimed around 6 acres so far. More than 30 firefighters are on the scene, including a hotshot crew from Idaho, on loan from the U.S. Forest Service.