WAUSAU, Wis (WXCO) – Ashland’s Ackley wildfire burned 23 acres on Monday, closing down a stretch of Highway 2 up north in Wisconsin.

Over just the past few months, Wisconsin has lost 2,220 acres of land to wildfires. The land is most susceptible to the fires in the spring, and nearly a third of the land – 658 acres – has been lost in these spring months.

Before you burn, check the fire danger. Also, watch for equipment sparks.

Wisconsin’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) advises residents in the northern and central parts of the state to remain vigilant and avoid outdoor burnings.

The Ackley fires burned over 20 acres of land east of Ashland on Monday, May 5. Nearly a five mile stretch of Highway 2 by Ackley Road had swamp grass and cattails on fire.

Air patrol identified several different start points along the highway ditch, which grew into four separate fires, the DNR said in a press release.

Ten structures were threatened but saved through the joint efforts of DNR fire crews, the Ashland County sheriff’s department, and the fire departments of Bad River, Ashland, Saxon and Kimball, respectively.

Just a few days without rain is enough to turn dried out grasses, pine needles and leaf litter into easily lit fuel. Add low humidity and breezy winds into the mix, and it creates a spark that spreads rapidly.

Wisconsin isn’t forecasted to receive any substantial rainfall in the near future. There are chances for scattered showers and some storms Friday night into Saturday as a cold front drops through the state. Precipitation looks minimal, bringing in less than 0.20″.

The DNR is continuing to suspend burn permits in 30 counties.

The jet stream does shift by the latter half of the month, bringing more systems and rainfall our way. In southern Wisconsin, it’s already getting greener, so there’s a reduced risk for fires in that area.

Embers from any fire, especially burn piles and campfires, can easily get out of control and cause a wildfire if not properly put out. It’s good practice to douse any embers, then go back later checking to be sure they’re fully extinguished still.

Outdoor enthusiasts should also be extra careful with off-road vehicles or equipment that can create a spark and start a fire. Operate chainsaws, off-road vehicles, lawnmowers, and any other vehicles or tools either early in the morning or later in the day. This way, you’ll avoid sparks at peak heat and burn hours. Secure dragging trailer chains, too. The fires in Ashland were started by equipment use like this.

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