COPPER CENTER, AK –Based on current and predicted fire activity, the Alaska Multi-Agency Coordination Group decided to lower the Alaska Preparedness Level from 5, the highest, to 4 yesterday. This is due to a decrease in statewide fire activity. Cloud cover and heavy rains have moved into the area and are expected to moderate fire activity. With cooler temperatures and much needed precipitation alleviating the severe fire conditions, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve Superintendent Ben Bobowski lifted fire restrictions yesterday, July 25. Campfires are again permitted throughout the park and preserve. The use of gas grills and barbeques at campsites is also allowed.
Over the last 72 hours, over 1.75 inches of rain fell over the fires. More rain is expected today as showers continue to move through the Copper River Basin area. Both the Chetaslina (#606) and the Long (#484) fires are burning in deep duff that will require significant amounts of rain over a prolonged period of time to put them completely out. Warmer and drier weather conditions forecast for next week will affect how much drying fuels need until they become burnable again. Fire activity will likely increase once again when warmer and drier weather returns to the area.
The fire managers from the Valdez-Copper River Area Division of Forestry and the National Park Service will continue to balance the risk and benefits of the fires burning within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve while keeping firefighter and the public’s safety as the number one priority.
Below is an update for the two fires actively burning in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve:
Chetaslina Fire (#606) – This fire is estimated at 2,125 acres. No change in fire behavior or perimeter has been noted for several days.
Long Fire (#484) – This 150-acre fire experienced no growth. The Remote Area Weather Station (RAWS) showed that the fire received 0.83 inches of rain in the last 24 hours.
For statewide wildfire information, visit: https://akfireinfo.com/.
For additional information, please contact the Fire Information Center at (208)274-3316 or visit http://www.nps.gov/wrst/index.htm.
For additional information, please contact the Fire Information Center at (208)274-3316 or visit http://www.nps.gov/wrst/index.htm.
Categories: Active Wildland Fire, AK Fire Info, Alaska NPS
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 