4/21/2026

NORTHERN WISCONSIN / U.P. - The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) has issued warnings of elevated fire danger for much of Upper Michigan due to dry conditions and high fire danger. In Northern Wisconsin the fire danger in Iron, Ashland and Bayfield County is High and rated at Very High in Price County.  Vilas and Oneida Counties Fire danger is considered Moderate right now.  Residents are advised to refrain from outdoor burning for the time being, as burn permits will not be issued in the Upper Peninsula until significant rainfall has occurred. However, cooking and warming fires such as campfires are still allowed, provided they are contained within a metal ring and doused with water before leaving. It is crucial to never leave a fire unattended and to ensure it is completely out before leaving.

4/20/2026

IRON COUNTY - Following Charles Maslanka's April 2nd conviction in Iron County for false imprisonment, battery, and disorderly conduct, defense attorney Joe Rafferty Jr. moved for a new trial, alleging constitutional violations. Rafferty claims jury foreman Jason Roberts, who allegedly misrepresented himself as a former police officer and task force member, prejudiced the jury by falsely claiming Maslanka had a prior prison term for the same offense, in violation of judicial instructions. On April 13th, Rafferty filed a second motion alleging Roberts concealed law enforcement ties and "highly prejudicial outside information" during jury selection, requesting Roberts be held in contempt for "sabotaging the judicial process," a pre-evidentiary hearing, and an independent investigation.

4/20/2026

ASHLAND COUNTY – Strong Storms pushed though the region on Friday.  According to Ashland County officials, a tornado was observed 7 miles southeast of Clam Lake in the southern part of the county.  Iron and Ashland County were under a tornado warning for the first time this year for a short time.  The worst of the storms stayed to our south affected areas of central and southern Wisconsin.  Minimal to no damage reported in our local area.