Evers Declares Emergency Due To Elevated Wildfire Conditions

MADISON,WI — Gov. Tony Evers on Monday signed Executive Order #110, declaring a State of Emergency in response to elevated wildfire conditions throughout Wisconsin.

The Department of Natural Resources has requested support from the Wisconsin National Guard due to elevated fire danger across the state. Evers' order will support challenges associated with ongoing statewide wildfire danger and widespread need to enhance suppression capability and protect Wisconsinites.

There have already been more than 320 wildfires reported in Wisconsin so far this year, burning over 1,400 acres. Fire officials anticipate a slightly longer than average fire season due to early snow melting around the state, the release said.

The order from the governor will assist the state in rapidly mobilizing the Army National Guard’s Blackhawk helicopters to the areas of the state in most need of aerial fire suppression resources during the critical spring fire season; this critical period in Wisconsin generally lasts through the month of May.

Wisconsin is heavily invested in achieving quick initial attack to mitigate the potential for large fire development. The National Weather Service indicates weather conditions conducive to wildfires are possible, including gusty winds, low relative humidity and dry fuels, the release said.