Minnesota Wildfire Update: Thumb, Wolfpack, and Sioux Fires Continue Burning in St. Louis County
August 5, 2026 – Firefighters continue battling three significant wildfires burning across St. Louis County, Minnesota, where dry vegetation, warm temperatures, and challenging fire conditions have fueled rapid fire growth in recent days. While containment efforts are making progress, evacuation notices remain in effect for some areas, and residents should remain prepared for changing conditions.
Together, the Thumb Fire, Wolfpack Fire, and Sioux Fire have burned more than 31,000 acres, highlighting the ongoing wildfire threat across northeastern Minnesota.
Thumb Fire: Largest Fire in St. Louis County
The Thumb Fire remains the largest active wildfire in the region.
- Location: St. Louis County, Minnesota
- Acres Burned: 17,690 acres
- Containment: 50%
Fire crews have successfully increased containment to 50 percent while continuing to strengthen fire lines around the perimeter. Although progress has been made, firefighters remain alert for flare-ups caused by shifting winds, dry fuels, and isolated hot spots that could challenge containment efforts.
Wolfpack Fire: Evacuation Level 2 Remains in Effect
The Wolfpack Fire continues to pose concerns for nearby residents as firefighters work to improve containment.
- Location: St. Louis County, Minnesota
- Acres Burned: 6,227 acres
- Containment: 23%
- Evacuation Status: Level 2 – Be Set to Evacuate
A Level 2 evacuation means residents should be prepared to leave at short notice if conditions worsen. Emergency officials encourage families to have important documents, medications, pets, and emergency supplies ready should evacuation orders be upgraded.
Firefighters continue constructing containment lines while using aircraft and ground resources to slow fire spread where terrain allows.
Sioux Fire Continues Burning
The Sioux Fire remains another active incident requiring significant firefighting resources.
- Location: St. Louis County, Minnesota
- Acres Burned: 7,094 acres
- Containment: 21%
Although containment has improved slightly, much of the fire remains active. Crews continue working to secure fire lines while monitoring weather conditions that could increase fire behavior.
Weather Continues to Influence Fire Activity
Even when fires reach partial containment, wildfire conditions can change rapidly. Gusty winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation can cause fires to spread quickly or produce new spot fires beyond established containment lines.
Fire managers continue monitoring weather forecasts closely while coordinating suppression efforts to reduce the risk of additional fire growth.
Wildfire Safety Tips
Residents living near active wildfire areas should:
- Stay informed through local emergency management and evacuation alerts.
- Prepare an emergency evacuation plan before conditions deteriorate.
- Keep vehicles fueled and emergency kits readily available.
- Avoid entering closed recreation areas or active fire zones.
- Follow all evacuation orders immediately if issued.
Remaining prepared can help ensure a safe and timely evacuation if wildfire conditions change unexpectedly.
Looking Ahead
Fire crews remain committed to increasing containment on all three fires while protecting nearby communities, infrastructure, and natural resources. Continued favorable weather and sustained firefighting efforts will be key to limiting additional wildfire growth in northeastern Minnesota.
As these incidents evolve, residents should continue monitoring official emergency information for the latest evacuation updates and fire conditions.
Stay with Radar Watch HQ for the latest wildfire updates, evacuation information, fire weather alerts, and breaking emergency coverage from Minnesota and across the United States.
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Radar Watch HQ earns from qualifying purchases.
Radar Watch HQ Top 5 Essentials – Wildfire Preparedness
Helps reduce exposure to wildfire smoke, ash, and fine particles.
Provides alerts during power outages or when cell service is unavailable.
Go Bag / Emergency Preparedness Kit
Includes important documents, medications, water, food, flashlights, and basic supplies for quick evacuation.
Fire-Resistant Outdoor Supplies
Items such as fire-resistant gloves, protective clothing, and tools for creating defensible space around property.
Portable Power Bank & Backup Charging Supplies
Keeps phones and emergency devices powered during wildfire emergencies.
