The Minnesota National Guard will help officials in Washington state battle ongoing wildfires.

Gov. Tim Walz authorized the request for help on Friday.

A UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter and 10 National Guard soldiers will respond to Washington to provide medivac support to group firefighting efforts and aerial fire suppression, according to the governor's office.

Officials in Washington asked the Minnesota National Guard to help for a minimum of two weeks but no specific timeline has been set for the crew's return. They're expected to arrive in Washington on Saturday.

"Wildfires continue to put our fellow Americans' lives at risk, and when disaster hits, Minnesotans have always stepped up to help out their neighbors. We continue to battle our own wildfires here in Minnesota, but we have the resources needed to manage those, and we are in a strong position to step up and help our fellow states," Walz said. "I am proud that the Minnesota National Guard has answered this call to serve. These soldiers' support will be critical to ensuring the safety of Washington residents during this harrowing time."

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