Governor Tim Walz Mobilizes Minnesota National Guard to Combat Northern Wildfires
Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota has declared a peacetime emergency to mobilize the state's National Guard in response to wildfires in the northern region. The decision follows a request from the Department of Natural Resources for additional support as the fires, described as 'unpredictable and fast-moving,' threaten local communities. The emergency declaration allows for the full mobilization of resources to protect lives, support evacuations, and aid in community recovery efforts. The National Guard will provide staffing, equipment, and other assistance to firefighting operations. Significant fires include the Stewart Trail fire near Two Harbors, which has grown to 355 acres, and the Flanders fire in Crow Wing County, covering about 1,200 acres. Mandatory evacuations are in place, and Highway 61 is closed due to the Stewart Trail fire. The Minnesota Incident Command System reports 30% containment of the Stewart Trail fire, but changing wind patterns pose challenges to containment efforts.