August 13, 2014 11:40 a.m.

Lightning activity continues to spark fires in Alaska as six new fires were detected in western Alaska on August 12. All of the fires are located in the Alaska Fire Service Galena Zone that covers the western region of Alaska. Of the six fires, five are in limited management option areas and were placed in monitor status. The Allman Lake, Ingruksukruk, Kerulu Creek, Four Corners fires are 2 acres or less while the Kugarak River Fire is 30 acres.

The sixth fire, The Sisters, is 800 acres and located in a full management option area 13 miles southeast of St. Michael. A zone detection surveillance flight crew detected the fire at 1:01 p.m. The fire was observed as 90 percent active and running and backing with 1-3 foot flame lengths. Eight smokejumpers were deployed to the fire at 3 p.m. and a helicopter provided logistical and bucket support. Fire activity increased due to high winds causing growth towards the southwest. Shifting winds changed the direction of the fire to the west northwest. Smokejumpers have prioritized the north flank to protect values at risk.

For additional information about Alaska fires view the AICC Situation Report at the Alaska Interagency Coordination Center (AICC) website.

Categories: Active Wildland Fire