Current Situation: The Wyoming Type 3 Incident Management Team 2 took command of the #HessCreekFire at 7:00 a.m. this morning. Yesterday they shadowed the previous team to gain critical information about resources at risk, fire operation tactics, and local knowledge. Team 2’s goal is to transition the fire back to local land managers as the potential for significant growth diminishes.

Fire behavior yesterday was minimal with smoldering and movement observed in a few parts of the fire. The Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) was lifted Friday to allow for other aircraft in the area. However, a helicopter remains on-hand should activity increase, and aerial resources are needed.

With warmer and drier weather expected next week, crews will continue checking pumps and hoses, and ensuring sprinkler systems around structures will be ready if needed. They have also been assessing other structures further from the fire in case future weather causes fire growth. Black spruce is one of the most flammable vegetation types in Interior Alaska. Feather moss, along with black spruce, respond rapidly to weather conditions and can dry out and burn as soon as drier and warmer weather returns.

Fire Behavior and Weather: A cold front two days ago brought clouds, cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity. Fire activity has been minimal. Meteorologists anticipate a warming and drying trend to begin Monday, which may increase fire activity.

Public Awareness: For current road conditions, go to the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities’ 511.alaska.gov website. Stay up-to-date on current air quality information by visiting https://fires.airfire.org/outlooks/Alaska.  

Start Date: June 21, 2019
Cause: Lightning
Location: Ignition approximately 12 miles northeast of Livengoood, AK
Acreage: 173,467
Percent Contained: 0%
Personnel: 83

Hours of operation: 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Contact Fire Information: 208-269-4413
Email: HessCreekFire2019@gmail.com
Website: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6404
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLMAFS

Categories: AK Fire Info