Cook County under "High" fire danger rating

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has announced that the current fire danger rating for Cook County is HIGH, which means fires start easily and spread at a fast rate.

The DNR is NOT issuing burning permits in Cook County. The restriction is due to the continued drying trend, particularly in the eastern portion of the county.

Variances may be issued on a case-by-case basis by the Grand Marais DNR Forestry office, but for the general public NO burning is allowed at this time.

Anyone with questions may contact DNR Forester Aaron Mielke at 218-387-6030.

WTIP's Rhonda Silence checked in with Mielke to learn more about current conditions.