Senator Grant Hauschild (DFL-Hermantown) attended a press conference and briefing with federal and state officials about current conditions facing Northern Minnesota.
As of Wednesday afternoon, wildfires were covering 55,000 acres across Northern Minnesota, leading to the closure of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, localized evacuations, and air quality alerts across the region and state. Earlier Wednesday morning, Minnesota’s Emergency Executive Council extended the Governor’s Executive Order 26-08, authorizing state assistance and support to impacted areas for an additional 30 days beyond August 11.
“The ongoing wildfires across our region are a serious and dangerous situation, but local, state, and federal resources are being mobilized to contain these fires and to help those affected by them. I am incredibly grateful for the brave men and women on the frontlines working around the clock to combat these fires and to keep people safe,” said Sen. Hauschild. “Right now, the most important thing people can do is to follow the directives of local authorities as the situation on the ground evolves. My office is ready to assist anyone in any way we can, and I encourage people to reach out immediately if they need help.”
Representative Roger Skraba (R-Ely) released the following statement after Governor Walz declared a peacetime emergency and has mobilized the Minnesota National Guard to provide assistance to deal with multiple wildfires that have broken out in northern Minnesota.
“First, I want to thank Governor Walz and the Commissioner of Public Safety Jacobson for declaring the area a peacetime emergency. I am extremely thankful to all the emergency personnel who are working around the clock to contain these fires and keep our communities safe. I’m praying for everyone who has been impacted, especially those who have been forced to evacuate their homes, as well as the brave firefighters, first responders, law enforcement officers, and National Guard members on the front lines. Northern Minnesota is resilient, and I encourage everyone to stay informed, follow local emergency guidance, and continue supporting one another during this difficult time.”
