Birch Bay Fire northwest of Ely is 30% contained, officials say

A wildfire that’s torn through parts of Minnesota’s northwoods this week is now 30% contained.That’s the latest update Thursday morning from fire crews, who tell Bring Me The News that the Birch Bay Fire, northwest of Ely, remains at 35 acres.Throughout the day, firefighters will focus on reinforcing fire containment lines, and physically putting out hot spots within 60 feet of the fire’s perimeter, with help from an additional crew that arrived to the area earlier this week. U.S. Forest Service-Superior National Forest The blaze broke out late Monday afternoon about a half-mile north of North Arm Road and Lindskog Road, at the northwest end of Burntside Lake, then moved into dense woods. On Thursday, the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office lifted all evacuation zones, but is still urging residents to use extreme caution when traveling as firefighters and heavy equipment are still in the area. Meanwhile, campfire restrictions in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness are set to take effect this weekend.From June 6 through June 30, stoves or charcoal/wood grills are banned from the area, though gas or propane cook stoves will still be allowed.“The potential for wildfire is high across all ownerships in northern Minnesota at this time,” Superior National Forest officials posted on Facebook.“It is extremely important that people are careful with any sources of ignition such as smoking devices, dragging chains, and recreational vehicles.” Visitors are also being asked to keep campfires small, watch over them at all times, and make sure embers are cold to the touch before leaving them unattended.