Much of Wisconsin under wildfire danger

The Wisconsin DNR said much of the state is experiencing high or very high danger levels for wildfires including La Crosse and surrounding counties.

In a statement on Monday afternoon, it said that 63 fires burned 135 acres this past weekend.

The forecast through Wednesday calls for dry weather and windy conditions which increase the risk of fires.

Dry grass, leaves, and pine needles coupled with low humidity and wind can lay the groundwork for wildfires.

With the exception of seven of the northernmost counties in the state, all the remaining 65 counties are either at those high or very high fire danger levels.

La Crosse, Jackson, Monroe, and Trempealeau counties are listed in the High fire danger area on the DNR’s WISBURN website. Vernon and Crawford counties are two of the ones on the Very High fire danger list.

They caution that if people need to burn outside to get the proper burn permits from your municipality.

According to the DNR, nearly 2,000 acres have burned so far in 2025 in nearly 500 wildfires. A total of 24 structures were lost as of April 14.

The statement said that the DNR is staffing all available fire equipment in the state. They are also moving resources to places with elevated fire risk.

Two Blackhawk helicopter crews from the Wisconsin Army National Guard are on standby. Each helicopter has water bucket capability if needed to fight fires.