Authorities Fighting Minnesota Wildfires Report “Great Progress” Made Over the Weekend

State officials say “great progress” is being made on containing wildfires in  eastern Minnesota but that despite cooler, wetter conditions, risks are still present given wind gusts in the area. 

The Jenkins Creek Fire was reportedly six percent contained Monday. That fire has burned more than 16,000 acres since the blaze broke out a week ago. 

The nearby Camp House Fire is considered 40 percent contained, up from 31 percent on Sunday. That fire now covers an area of more than 12,000 acres. 

Dozer crews were able to connect the control line to both sides of Brimson Lake on the south end of the fire, while firefighters continued to build protection around structures and key infrastructure on the north end. 

According to the National Weather Service, wind gusts in the affected area are expected to top 30 to 40 miles per hour on Tuesday and Wednesday.