MADISON, WI (WPR)— Wisconsin has seen around 250 more wildfires this year than the average for the last decade as the state faces high fire danger due to dry, warm weather.
More than 1,000 wildfires have consumed over 2,400 acres so far this year, according to data from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The 10-year average for this time of year is 772 wildfires, with an average of under 1,800 acres burned.
In the past week, there were 82 wildfires reported in the state, and Army National Guard helicopters are on standby to assist with fire suppression.
While it’s not uncommon to see a spike in wildfires during the fall, DNR Wildfire Prevention Specialist Catherine Koele said the blazes are being driven by warmer weather, gusty winds and dry conditions.