Houghton Lake Fire: Wildfire Burns 85 Acres Near The Clare-Roscommon County Line | Check Map

Firefighters from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and local departments are battling a wildfire that has scorched roughly 85 acres near Houghton Lake, Roscommon County. The fire, first reported Sunday afternoon, October 5, is burning east of Old U.S. Highway 27 near the Clare-Roscommon county line, according to the DNR. The area consists of marshy terrain with mixed pine and hardwood forests, making containment challenging amid gusty winds and dry vegetation.“The fire is burning through difficult terrain, but crews are holding the lines and reinforcing containment,” Jeff Vasher, DNR Lower Peninsula resource protection manager, told reporters. Firefighters are using bulldozers, fire engines, and drones to map and monitor the blaze, ensuring situational awareness while maintaining safety.High Fire Risk Prompts Public WarningMichigan’s Lower Peninsula is currently experiencing extreme fire danger, and officials urge residents to avoid the Houghton Lake area while suppression efforts continue. Paul Rogers, DNR fire prevention specialist, said, “We are currently experiencing severe drought conditions across the mid-to-lower peninsula. While rain is possible tonight and Tuesday, forecasters say expected amounts won’t ease the drought or significantly reduce fire danger.”The DNR also highlighted that 5,100 properties in Houghton Lake—approximately 90% of all properties—face some risk of wildfire over the next 30 years. Wildfires in the area can disrupt access to utilities, emergency services, evacuation routes, and overall local economic well-being. To mitigate further risk, the DNR suspended burn permits statewide on October 3 and continues to discourage outdoor burning until conditions improve.Firefighting Efforts and Safety MeasuresCrews continue to work to contain the blaze despite challenging winds and dry fuel conditions. As per reports, DNR and local firefighters have coordinated air and ground resources, using drones for mapping and enhancing situational awareness. Authorities are urging residents and visitors to stay away from the fire zone and remain vigilant, emphasizing the importance of fire safety during the ongoing severe drought conditions.Officials continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates as containment progresses.