Massive Wildfires Rage in Northeastern Minnesota: Sheriff Reveals Possible Causes

Three large wildfires are raging in northeastern Minnesota, burning more than 37,000 acres as of Wednesday morning. The Camp House Fire near Brimson, the Jenkins Creek Fire southeast of Hoyt Lakes, and the Munger Shaw Fire east of Canyon are all out of control. St. Louis County Sheriff Gordon Ramsay spoke with MPR News, offering some insight into the possible origins of the blazes. "An initial call came in on the Brimson Fire that it was a campfire that got out of control," Sheriff Ramsay stated. He also noted that the Jenkins Creek Fire started off Highway 16 and that a homeowner reported a hay bale combusting near the Munger Shaw Fire. However, he emphasized that these are just clues, and investigations are ongoing in partnership with the DNR and other law enforcement agencies. No arrests have been made at this time. The situation remains critical, with firefighters working tirelessly to contain the spread of the fires and ensure public safety. The scale of the wildfires underscores the importance of fire safety and responsible land management practices in the region.