Single Publication

Jenkins Creek & Horse River Fires Update
May 28, 2025

Fire Information: 

610-574-1130, 9 a.m.–8 p.m.
LinkTree: www.linktr.ee/2025.HorseRiver
Email: 2025.JenkinsCreek@firenet.gov

As of 7 a.m. today, the National Incident Management Organization (NIMO) team assumed command of both the Jenkins Creek and Horse River Fires. NIMO teams specialize in managing complex, long-duration incidents, focusing on strategic coordination. The Jenkins Creek Fire, which began on May 12, is being managed as a full suppression fire, with efforts now focused on suppression repair. Ignited by lightning on May 22, the Horse River Fire continues to smolder with limited spread in a remote part of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), near the U.S.–Canada border. The fire is managed for full suppression; however, poor access and rugged terrain require aerial support and canoe travel for suppression.

Jenkins Creek Fire
Size: 16,089 acres Containment: 84% Personnel: 246
Recent Unstaffed Aerial System (UAS/drone) flights detected multiple heat sources in the south and one in the north of the Jenkins Creek Fire. Firefighters quickly conducted mop-up operations to extinguish remaining heat and prevent re-ignition, especially near the perimeter and values at risk. Resources from the nearby Camp House Fire have been reassigned to support suppression efforts. Crews and equipment remain strategically positioned, focusing on areas with higher fire potential. On the northeast edge, where containment is incomplete, crews continue patrolling for heat, spot fires, and flare-ups. Chipping along 137 Road and Skibo Road is ongoing to reduce fire risk, control erosion, and aid recovery. These operations should finish by week’s end. Road grading has started and is expected to continue for at least another week.

Horse River Fire
Size: 20-25 acres Containment: 0% Personnel: 2
The Horse River Fire in the BWCAW remains active, visually estimated to be 20–25 acres with 0% containment. Thick duff and dead balsam fir trees are fueling the fire and complicating suppression efforts. The eight firefighters who rappelled in a few days ago were able to assess conditions and will be safely extracted today, providing vital intelligence for fire managers. Two wilderness rangers are also in the area, informing backcountry visitors and promoting safety. Fire crews continue aerial monitoring to identify hotspots. To aid suppression, two Wildland Fire Modules—small, specialized crews for remote areas—have been ordered. These crews of 7–10 firefighters work independently in remote areas, using hand tools and helicopters to contain fires, construct firelines, and safeguard resources and public safety.

Fire Weather & Behavior: Recent showers brought some moisture, with Jenkins Creek getting more than Horse River, which only had a light sprinkle. While helpful, the rain was too light over Horse River to affect deep fuels like duff or dead fir. There's a 20% chance of wetting rain today, but it’s unlikely to suppress fire activity, especially with possible afternoon thunderstorms that could cause erratic winds and new ignitions. High temperatures in the low 70s support moderate fire behavior, but warming and gusty winds later this week may dry vegetation and increase fire activity.

Air Operations: Aircraft is available and may be brought in to help support both fires, if needed. UAS (drones) flights are still being conducted over the Jenkins Creek Fire to detect any heat sources that remain within the perimeter of the fire. A temporary flight restriction remains in effect over the Jenkins Creek fire area.
Reminder: Flying drones over or near wildfires is strictly prohibited. If a drone is spotted, all aerial firefighting operations must be grounded immediately, which can delay critical suppression efforts and put lives at risk. Drones are also illegal in federally designated wilderness areas, including the BWCAW. Help protect firefighters and the public—keep your drones out of wildfire zones.

Reminder: Flying drones over or near wildfires is strictly prohibited. If a drone is spotted, all aerial firefighting operations must be grounded immediately, which can delay critical suppression efforts and put lives at risk. Drones are also illegal in federally designated wilderness areas, including the BWCAW. Help protect firefighters and the public—keep your drones out of wildfire zones