Wildfire in Superior National Forest now 75% contained after weather shift

A wildfire in Superior National Forest is now considered 75% contained, with firefighters aided by a shift in the weather.

In a Friday afternoon update, the U.S. Forest Service says the Fry Fire is 265 acres in size, of which 56 was a planned prescribed fire, and 209 acres is a wildfire.

The wildfire started during the prescribed burn in an area of the forest near Isabella, Minnesota, Wednesday afternoon, with a spot fire breaking out and then spreading.

Water dropping aircraft were brought in to battle the blaze, and suppression efforts Thursday evening when cloud cover and increased humidity arrived in the region.

Conditions further improved with cooler temperatures and continued humidity, helping crews get the blaze under better control.

"Engines and crews have engaged on the fire again this morning (May 17) and have continued to mop up hot spots while improving and strengthening the control lines working towards containment," the USFS said.

"Fire activity is reported as minimal with only a few areas of creeping and smoldering. Minimal smoke is coming from the fire area. There continues to be no immediate threat to private property or structures."

Crews will remain on site during Friday as work towards containment continues.

"Weather conditions are forecasted to help the firefighting efforts with cool temperatures, cloud cover, and high humidity levels," the department said.