Story perspectives

Minnesota declares emergency, closes 225k-acre Boundary Waters

7/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

The state closed 225,000 acres of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, prompting Governor Tim Walz to declare an emergency, issue a red-flag warning for five counties, and mobilize the Minnesota National Guard.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Forest Service evacuated campers, shut down 15 lakes, campsites and trails, and, under the emergency order, authorized the Guard to provide personnel and equipment to support fire crews.

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Story summary

The state closed 225,000 acres of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, prompting Governor Tim Walz to declare an emergency, issue a red-flag warning for five counties, and mobilize the Minnesota National Guard.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Forest Service evacuated campers, shut down 15 lakes, campsites and trails, and, under the emergency order, authorized the Guard to provide personnel and equipment to support fire crews.