[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has authorized the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency aviation support in fighting the severe wildfires causing destruction in Louisiana.

“Minnesotans don’t stand by when there’s a call for help. Thank you to the members of the Minnesota National Guard for answering the call to help battle the wildfires raging through Louisiana,” said Governor Walz. “We’re committed to helping these communities in need and assisting our partners in Louisiana get these wildfires under control.”

Louisiana is experiencing abnormally high temperatures, historic drought, and dangerous wildfire conditions. Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards has declared a state of emergency, and the State of Louisiana has requested aviation support under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact to supplement local resources.

The Minnesota National Guard is preparing to send a team of 10-12 service members and two UH60 Blackhawks to support emergency aerial operations in Louisiana, with current plans to depart for Louisiana on Tuesday, September 5.