It's fire season in Wisconsin. Spring is typically the time of year that the state is at risk for wildfires, which can ignite quickly and spread rapidly.
This link to the state DNR site shows fire danger broken down by county. This map changes daily, so be sure to check back for updates.
Conditions that make spring weather conducive for fires include gusty winds, low relative humidity, and dry grasses. Another concern this year, for parts of the state, are leftover downed trees (fuels) from windstorms in July of 2019.
As of April 23rd, there is no drought across the state, and very few dry areas across the Midwest, according to the United States Drought Monitor.
Since January 1st, 2020, Milwaukee has recorded 7.40" of precipitation. A normal value by April 22nd would be 8.34", leaving us with a deficit of 0.94".
Over the next few days, it will remain breezy across SE Wisconsin. However, we will see the opportunity for rain as well. Friday and Saturday will bring rain showers, we see a break on Sunday, but more rain moves in early next week. The rain will help keep fire danger low to moderate.
A State of Emergency has been declared by Governor Tony Evers due to the elevated wildfire concerns. This allows the Wisconsin National Guard, and other state agencies, to provide resources to assist in the prevention, response, and recovery revolving around wildfires.
According to a press release from Gov. Evers' office, released April 21st, over 150 wildfires have occurred in state DNR protection areas this year.
Stay with the TMJ4 Storm Team for the latest weather conditions impacting Southeast Wisconsin.