Nearly all portions of the Twin Creeks Fire perimeter are now secured, with containment of the 4,868-acre fire on Kodiak Island expected to reach 95 percent by Friday evening.
Also on Friday, a “Palm IR” flight took place by helicopter around the fire’s perimeter to identify the locations of any remaining ‘hotspots.’ The Palm IR instrument picks up the infrared heat signature from fire embers that may otherwise escape detection. During this flight 13 locations of suspected fire heat were located and plotted on a map. Firefighters will now visit each location to make sure any last ‘heat’ from the fire located on the perimeter is put out. Other work completed Friday included double checking around homes for any signs of embers and the removal of hazard trees near the Chiniak School and residences.
Thursday’s rain over the Twin Creeks Fire, which started on Aug. 27 near the village of Chiniak, is also helping to reduce the chance of the fire spreading. With the fire almost contained, the first fire crews will begin returning home on Saturday. A gradual reduction in the number of fire staff will take place over the next few days.
The public is advised to be careful if visiting burned areas that have hazard trees present. A hazard tree is created when its roots are burned and the tree is weakened, allowing it to fall with little warning. Firefighters have removed hazard trees to protect firefighters working to secure the line. Be careful if driving near Chiniak, as firefighters and their vehicles are working in the area.
Categories: Active Wildland Fire, AK Fire Info
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 