Crews Continue Fire Suppression Efforts on Jenkins Creek, Horse River Fires

A National Incident Management Organization (NIMO) team is overseeing operations on the Jenkins Creek and Horse River Fires in northern Minnesota, with public and firefighter safety remaining the top priority. The effort is being carried out under a full suppression strategy.

As of Wednesday, the Jenkins Creek Fire is 94% contained and has burned 16,091 acres. A total of 207 personnel are assigned to the fire. Drone missions conducted over the southern portion of the fire on Tuesday did not detect any heat, while infrared technology identified three heat sources in the northern half—one in the northernmost area and two in the northwest. Ground crews continue to locate and suppress these hotspots and are walking the fire’s southwest perimeter to improve mapping.

In addition to suppression efforts, a Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team is now assisting Superior National Forest officials in assessing potential impacts to watersheds affected by the Jenkins Creek Fire. Grading has been completed on roads 113, 120, and 420 to improve access and safety.

The Horse River Fire, currently estimated at 13 acres, remains at 0% containment. Twenty-six personnel are working within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness to methodically search the perimeter and interior for remaining hotspots. Crews are also collecting GPS data to refine the fire’s perimeter map. No new sources of heat have been reported outside the fire’s current boundaries.

Weather conditions on Wednesday are expected to be mostly sunny with relative humidity levels dropping to 20–25% and temperatures in the low 70s. Winds out of the west may gust up to 20 mph. These moderate weather conditions, while not as severe as those experienced over the weekend, are expected to promote further drying of fuels. A chance of rain on Sunday may offer relief and provide an opportunity for firefighting crews to make additional progress.

Officials also issued a warning about the ongoing risk of “hit-by-hazards,” such as falling trees and limbs. Fire-weakened trees, particularly those affected by a widespread spruce budworm infestation, continue to pose significant danger even after a fire is brought under control. Authorities are urging all personnel and any nearby visitors to remain cautious in burned areas.

For continued updates, the public is encouraged to follow official channels from the Superior National Forest and incident management teams.