(Fairbanks, Alaska) –Fire behavior was relatively calm in northeastern Alaska but gusty winds overnight stirred some fire behavior. Lightning ignited one new fire burning on the Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge. Three fires are staffed in northeastern Interior Alaska, but most fires in the region not threatening people or property are being monitored. Temperatures remain high in much of northeastern Alaska today, but scattered showers are expected to keep fire behavior moderated. Cooler temperatures, higher relative humidity and increased chances of wetting rain are forecast for the rest of the week into the weekend.
The Tivehvun Lake Fire (#285) was spotted by aircraft on Wednesday on the Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge. The fire was reported as creeping and smoldering in a pocket of black spruce surrounded by tundra. It is estimated at .5 acre and is burning in a limited management area and will be monitored.
The Porcupine Fire (#249) – The fire is 60% contained as firefighters continue to work on building and securing firelines. Fire behavior was reported as low to moderate yesterday. Gusty winds last night caused some burned trees to fall and firefighters will walk the fireline today to make sure it is clear of blown down trees. The Baker River Hotshots are scheduled to arrive today and will focus on the eastern boundary, holding the fire where line has been constructed and building line where none exists. Fire crews continue to respond to spot fires outside firelines. A boat is transporting crews to work areas, and two Fireboss scooper planes are on call to help reduce fire activity near fireline construction if needed. Eight smokejumpers are demobilizing from the fire to return to Fairbanks tonight. The Porcupine Fire started Saturday and is estimated at 185 acres burning about 17 miles northeast of Fort Yukon in the Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge.
Ninemile Lake Fire (#270) – Firefighters continued to secure the fire’s boundary today. The Ninemile Fire is burning in tundra, hardwoods and black spruce and is 75% contained with a 50 foot spray line complete around 95% of the perimeter. Containment and mop-up should be completed in approximately 4 shifts. The CATG Type 2 fire crew is scheduled to arrive today to continue mopping up the fire and securing the fire edge. Firefighters will also grid the “green” by walking through and searching for hot spots and extinguishing them. Mop up will continue for the next few days. The Ninemile Lake fire was started by lightning on Monday and is estimated at 10 acres burning about 30 miles south of Fort Yukon.
For more information, contact the Alaska Interagency Fire Information Office at (907)356-5511. For a copy of this report, click here.
Categories: AK Fire Info
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 