safety
Minnesota wildfires: BWCA fires grow to over 70,000 acres
Summary by The Minneapolis Editorial Desk · Based on reporting by FOX , FOX 9 KMSP (FOX)
· July 20, 2026
· 1 min read
Wildfires across northeastern Minnesota have burned nearly 69,000 acres, with evacuations and closures in effect in multiple counties as of 10 a.m. Sunday, July 19. Fire crews are working on containment, structure protection and monitoring, but changing weather may increase fire activity.
Key takeaway Fire crews are working on containment, structure protection and monitoring, but changing weather may increase fire activity.
Why this matters in The Minneapolis
The growing wildfires in northeastern Minnesota pose a significant threat to the region's natural resources and nearby communities. As the fires continue to spread, Minneapolis residents who frequently visit the affected areas for outdoor recreation may be concerned about the long-term impact on popular destinations. The proximity of the wildfires to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a beloved spot for many Twin Cities residents, raises questions about the potential for future access restrictions and the economic effects on local tourism. With changing weather conditions potentially increasing fire activity, local authorities and fire crews must remain vigilant in their containment efforts to mitigate the risk of further spread and protect both people and the environment. The situation will likely be closely monitored by Minneapolis residents with ties to the affected region.
About this story
Original reporting by FOX 9 KMSP (FOX) . The Minneapolis surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit FOX 9 KMSP (FOX) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 20, 2026 ·
Source: FOX 9 KMSP (FOX) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Wildfires across northeastern Minnesota have burned nearly 69,000 acres, with evacuations and closures in effect in multiple counties as of 10 a.m. Sunday, July 19. Fire crews are working on containment, structure protection and monitoring, but changing weather may increase fire activity.
When was this published? This article was first published on July 20, 2026 by FOX 9 KMSP (FOX) and curated for The Minneapolis readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by FOX at FOX 9 KMSP (FOX). To learn more about how The Minneapolis selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Minneapolis, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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