[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today announced the authorization of emergency assistance for areas of Crow Wing and Lake Counties that suffered damage caused by wildfires in May, and for areas of Stevens and Grant Counties that suffered damage caused by severe storms in June.

“The fires and severe storms that spread across Northern and Western Minnesota earlier this summer caused major loss and significant damage,” said Governor Walz. “Minnesota’s emergency management team has my deepest gratitude as they work closely with affected counties to assess damage and help these communities recover and rebuild.”

Areas of Crow Wing and Lake Counties are receiving emergency assistance for significant damage caused by wildfires that started on May 15 and 16. Areas of Stevens and Grant Counties are receiving emergency assistance for significant damage caused by severe storms that started on June 16. Funding and public assistance will aid in rebuilding public infrastructure damaged by the fires and storms in these areas. The total assistance will be determined once all damage assessments are complete.

Earlier this week, Governor Walz also convened an emergency meeting of the Executive Council to approve an extension of the peacetime emergency he declared on Sunday. This extension allows the Minnesota National Guard to remain in Northern Minnesota to help suppress ongoing wildfires and support local efforts to save lives and prevent damage.