July 22, 2019 
A high pressure system is returning to Alaska, bringing warmer temperatures back to fire areas and an increase in fire activity. Fuels in Alaska especially dry in the Upper Yukon Valley where numerous fires are burning, with heavy smoke being produced that is affecting air quality.
Many times, communities will see clear skies in the morning, but experience levels of smoke in the afternoon once wind patterns shift only to see smoky conditions return at night. Individuals with existing health conditions should take necessary steps to avoid smoke, as directed by their physician.
North (Fairbanks and surrounding cities, Denali National Park)
Fire
Fire activity in the Upper Yukon Valley is expected to remain intense, with higher temperatures and drier conditions. Weather in East Central Zone is also warmer and drier, but fire activity has slowed there.
Smoke
The Upper Yukon Valley will experience heavy smoke from large fires in the area, at times in the very unhealthy or even hazardous category in localized areas. If you begin to notice health effects from smoke, follow the “actions to protect yourself” listed below.
Fairbanks and North Pole can expect moderate air quality, with potential for some smoke to move in overnight.
Blue Sky computer modeling indicates good to moderate air quality in Denali National Park today, with smoke moving in overnight.
Other
A list of activity for specific fires is available at: https://fire.ak.blm.gov/ then AICC Situation Report.
South (Anchorage, Mat-Su, and the Kenai Peninsula)
Fire
The Swan Lake Fire is approximately 102,027 acres in size with 72 percent of the planned objectives accomplished. The fire saw minimal activity with the cloud cover yesterday. Clearer and warmer conditions today could bring a slight increase in fire behavior.
Smoke
Cooper Landing saw clear skies yesterday morning, then smoke in the afternoon. Smoke is expected today. Anchorage experienced moderate air quality all day yesterday. This is expected to be the case once again today with possibility of smoke coming in from adjacent fires.
Copper River and Juneau
Low clouds and smoke could inhibit visibility this morning, expected to lift out by mid-day. Moderate smoke impact is expected in the Copper River Area. Juneau should not be impacted by smoke.
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