Fire Danger 'Very High' in Vilas, Oneida Counties

Vilas and Oneida counties, (shown here in orange) along with much of the northern part of the state, are under "Very High" fire danger warnings. This could get worse as no rain is forecast for at least the next week. (Image courtesy of Wisconsin DNR)

The northern portion of the state is currently considered a "Very High" risk for fire danger, with no precipitation in sight according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

The department is currently asking the public to check fire conditions before conducting outdoor burning activities. For those in an area of "High" or "Very High" fire danger — such as Vilas and Oneida counties — the DNR urges everyone to stay vigilant and avoid outdoor burning.

According to a press release from the DNR on Tuesday, spring is the most critical fire season in Wisconsin. So far in 2025, 658 wildfires have burned 2,220 acres of land in the state.

"Even a few days between precipitation can dry out grasses, pine needles and leaf litter, creating hazardous conditions," the DNR said in its release. "Add low humidity and variable winds to the mix, and fire danger increases significantly. The 7-day forecast shows no precipitation for much of central and northern Wisconsin, exacerbating the conditions in areas already in 'High' or 'Very High' fire danger."

This elevated fire danger will continue until there is significant rainfall, and the DNR is continuing to suspend burn permits in 30 counties where it has burn restriction authority. This includes most of the state's northern counties.

The vegetation in southern Wisconsin is continuing to green up, helping reduce the risk for wildfires in this region.

Take Action To Help Prevent Wildfires

Embers from any fire, especially burn piles and campfires, can easily get out of control and cause a wildfire if not properly extinguished. Please avoid all burning until conditions improve.

DNR burn permit restrictions and fire danger vary from county to county. However, the DNR will suspend annual burn permits in these critical areas where the DNR has burn restriction authority.

Outdoor enthusiasts should also be extra careful with off-road vehicles or equipment that can create a spark and start a fire. With dry weather conditions across much of the state, fires can spark at any time.

Follow these simple tips to prevent wildfires from getting out of control:

Avoid outdoor burning until conditions improve.
Operate equipment (chainsaws, off-road vehicles, lawnmowers, etc.) early in the morning or late in the day to avoid sparks at peak burn hours.
Secure dragging trailer chains.
Report fires early and call 911.

Check current fire danger, wildfire reports and burning restrictions on the DNR's website.