Dozens Evacuated as Growing Wildfire Threatens Homes in St. Louis County

May 11

***Photo via*** ***Friends of the Northland FireWire***

Firefighters are battling a fast-moving wildfire that broke out Sunday afternoon in Ault Township, northeast of Brimson, threatening multiple structures and prompting evacuations.

The St. Louis County 911 Center got the initial call around 1:15 p.m., reporting a grass and wildfire in the vicinity of the 2200 block of Highway 44.

The fire was said to be moving rapidly through wooded areas in a northeasterly direction.

FREE > Sign up for the MN CRIME newsletter

Crews from several fire departments responded to the scene, including Brimson, Pequaywan Township, North Star Township, Lakewood Township and Normanna Township, along with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Forest Service, St. Louis County Rescue Squad, and St. Louis County Emergency Management.

By mid-afternoon, the fire had reached an estimated 160 acres. By late afternoon, St. Louis County Sheriff Gordon Ramsay told The Northland Fire Wire that the blaze had grown to roughly 200 acres and had destroyed at least one garage. No injuries have been reported but authorities said multiple cabins, garages and other structures have been affected.

The St. Louis County Rescue Squad has led the evacuation effort, moving at least 20 people from their homes in the fire zone. Several dozen properties are believed to be under threat. The Ault Town Hall has been opened as a temporary gathering point for residents seeking help or information.

Officials say at least six aircraft are being used to help suppress the fire as ground crews continue to work through rugged terrain and dense forest conditions. The cause of the fire remains under investigation and authorities plan to release further updates as the response continues.

UPDATE | Monday, May 12

The rapidly spreading wildfire has now scorched an estimated 750 acres, according to officials coordinating the response. Originally estimated at 160 acres by mid-afternoon Sunday, quickly expanded through wooded areas northeast of Brimson, fueled by dry conditions and rugged terrain.

As of Monday morning, authorities say at least three homes have been destroyed. More than 50 structures—primarily houses and cabins—have been evacuated, and officials say displaced residents should plan to remain away from their properties through at least Monday night, May 12.

The wildfire has led to the closure of Highway 44 between Indian Creek Road and Brimson Road, north of Hugo’s Bar. Officials warn the area remains unsafe due to ongoing hot spots and flare-ups.

The U.S. Forest Service is leading the response with assistance from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Brimson Fire, Pequaywan Township, North Star Township, Lakewood Township, Normanna Township, the St. Louis County Rescue Squad, and Emergency Management. Air support remains active with at least six aircraft aiding ground crews battling the fire in difficult terrain.

The Ault Town Hall remains open as a central location for evacuees in need of support or updates. No injuries have been reported and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

> See more of our latest coverage