Governor Walz tours wildfire damage in Two Harbors Monday

2:34 p.m. UPDATE - Gov. Tim Walz visited Two Harbors on Monday to survey damage from the Stewart Trail Fire and meet with wildfire crews, local officials, first responders and residents affected by the fire.

The Stewart Trail Fire has burned about 355 acres and destroyed 34 structures, including homes and outbuildings. Officials said the fire is more than 60% contained, though some evacuation orders remain in place and portions of Highway 61 remain closed.

“Being here in Two Harbors, I’m grateful for the progress first responders have made to contain these fires and protect lives,” Walz said in a statement. “These fires have disrupted communities and forced evacuations, but the coordinated response across local, state, and federal partners has made a real difference.”

Crews continue to battle the Stewart Trail Fire while also responding to the Flanders Fire in Crow Wing County, which has grown to more than 1,600 acres and prompted evacuations.

Walz declared a peacetime emergency Sunday and mobilized the Minnesota National Guard and additional state resources to support wildfire response efforts across northern Minnesota. The Guard is assisting with wildfire suppression and emergency response operations in coordination with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center and local agencies.

TWO HARBORS, Minn. (Northern News Now) - On Monday, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is set to tour damage from the Stewart Trail Fire burning near Two Harbors.

The fire broke out Friday.

As of Monday morning, officials say the 355-acre wildfire is now 62 percent contained and they have reduced some of the evacuation zones.

Walz is set to receive a briefing from local officials and emergency managers. He will also meet with first responders and tour the damage.

Northern News Now will have full coverage of the Governor’s visit Monday night.

Officials say the fire has destroyed 34 structures near Two Harbors as of Monday morning.

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