The Popovich Creek Coal Seam Fire (#067) continues to burn in a previously burned area north of Healy, near the Usibelli Coal Mine. The 2,031-acre fire spread from a smoldering coal seam last Thursday. The seam was reported to be emitting smoke during the week of May 6. This coal seam fire is considered naturally caused, most likely from lighting and are virtually impossible to extinguish. It is not possible to determine when this ignited, coal seam fires can smolder under ground for some time, often under winter’s snow cover and coming to life in the spring.
Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection (DOF) Pioneer Peak Hotshot Crew were joined Friday by BLM Alaska Fire Service Chena Hotshot Crew to secure the fire’s western edge and conduct burnout operations from new and existing saw and dozer lines to remove fuels ahead of the fire. This work is to contain the fire, currently at 10% containment, that is burning in grass, brush and a mix of young hardwoods and spruce. DOF White Mountain Type 2 Initial Attack Crew deployed to the fire Saturday. White Mountain on Sunday secured the eastern flank, seeking out and extinguishing hotspots. There are 67 firefighters assigned to the fire assisted by a DOF engine, helicopter, dozer, and heavy equipment from Usibelli. This work will be ongoing for several days.
An Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) is burning off isolated patches of burnable vegetation within the fire’s perimeter. Using a drone dropping plastic spheres that ignite allows for precision firing without exposing firefighters to unsafe conditions. Burning off these interior pockets of fuel will keep them from igniting unexpectedly, potentially casting embers beyond control lines.
A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over the fire area for the safe operation of firefighting aircraft. The TFR will not affect the Healy Airstrip or general aviation, but pilots need to be aware it is in place and avoid the area. For more information on the TFR follow this link: https://tfr.faa.gov/
The Parks Highway has not been impacted by the fire and continues to be open to traffic. The public is reminded to proceed with caution near the fire. Firefighters, firefighting equipment and aviation will be visible between Mile 248 and 255.
Categories: Active Wildland Fire, Alaska DNR - Division of Forestry (DOF)
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 