Chippewa Valley (WQOW) – Warm, windy weather increases the potential for wildfires across Wisconsin.
Eau Claire and Chippewa counties are at high fire risk. This means burning licenses are suspended until further notice.
Wildfire season started much earlier, said Adam Vohinger, a Wisconsin DNR ranger. It usually starts in late March or early April. This is due to the mostly dry and mild winters.
Because of the prior danger, the DNR and local fire departments make preparations every day in case a fire breaks out.
“DNR Rangers like myself will be in contact with local fire departments within their area,” Foehinger said. “These guys and gals are the first to get there. It's in their backyard. So, we're going to make sure we communicate well with them. Their brush trucks are ready and full of water. We're making sure our equipment is ready.” We do daily checks on it to make sure everything is working well.”
As the fire danger increases, more staff are called in to assist. Bulldozers and planes can also be used. The DNR said the wildfire risk will likely continue and burn permits will be suspended until we get a significant amount of rain.
You can see the exact breakdown of burning restrictions in each county, click here.
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