N. Michigan fire contained, but dangers remain

By AP

SOUTH BRANCH TOWNSHIP, MI –

A northern Michigan forest fire that burned more than 8,500 acres is under control, but officials say conditions are ripe for others to break out.

The state Department of Natural Resources and Environment said Monday the blaze in Crawford County's South Branch Township is almost entirely contained.

Spokeswoman Mary Dettloff said it might take weeks to extinguish all hot spots. But the job has been turned over to local volunteer units.

The fire began last Tuesday when a resident lost control of a brush fire. It destroyed or damaged 14 homes and 48 outbuildings.

The DNRE has responded this year to 264 wildfires. They have consumed a combined 11,051 acres.

Officials say fire danger remains high because of hot, dry weather.