Rock Island Lake fire

PAGAMI COUNTRY - A wildfire was detected Wednesday afternoon one mile southwest of Lake Two in the BWCA. The fire is located west of Rock Island Lake and approximately 16 miles east of Ely. The fire is believed to be caused by a lightning strike. An air tanker and helicopter made 30,000 gallons in water drops on the fire to slow fire spread. All sides of the fire were active, but the water drops were successfully reducing fire activity. The fire is estimated to be 1.5 acres in size. A crew of 10 firefighters was flown into Lake Two to camp and assess access routes and safety zones. Aircraft will continue to make water drops to reduce fire activity. There were no closures as of Thursday afternoon.