TOFTE — A wildfire first observed Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 8, has grown to 50 acres in George H. Crosby Manitou Park near Tofte in Lake County.
The Minnesota Interagency Fire Center reported the fire is burning in mixed maple hardwoods and fall leaf litter, primarily in a remote ridge area of the park. Steep terrain is making access to the fire area more difficult for firefighters, but minimal activity was observed overnight.
Wednesday, multiple aircraft supported firefighters on the ground, providing water drops that helped cool and slow down the active flames. Firefighting crews are continuing to work on establishing a containment line around the fire's perimeter Thursday.
The state park and the Superior Hiking Trail remain open to public use. Due to the increase in firefighting activity, including use of aircraft, officials are advising visitors to use caution.
Warmer temperatures are in the forecast for Thursday with southerly winds, gusting up to 20 to 25 mph. The relative humidity is expected to be higher than Wednesday, ranging from 35% to 50% or higher along the North Shore. Showers and a possible thunderstorm are possible later afternoon into Thursday night.
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