Central Creek Airstrip Fire’s growth slowed by rain

By Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection on June 20, 2022

The growth of the Central Creek Airstrip Fire (#295) has slowed as it spreads into old burned areas. The ridge tops still have scattered melting snow patches hindering the fire’s progress. The lightning caused fire has been following drainages to the east, but these riparian zones are very wet having been clear of winter’s snowpack for only a few weeks. The west end of the fire has burned to the edge of the Goodpaster River. A reconnaissance flight today mapped the fire at 2,995 acres.

This aerial photograph show drifting smoke over a forested area near a wildland fire. — Smoke lingers over the Central Creek Airstrip Fire (#295) on Monday, June 20, 2022. Rains during the day moderated the fire behavior. Fire managers expect little to no growth during the rest of the week due to more rain in the forecast.

This aerial photograph shows a burned area in a forest along a river. — Smoke lingers over the Central Creek Airstrip Fire (#295) on Monday, June 20, 2022. Rains during the day moderated the fire behavior. Fire managers expect little to no growth during the rest of the week due to more rain in the forecast.

Structure protection efforts have been completed for homes and cabins along the Goodpaster River and the confluence of Central Creek. All personnel have been pulled off the fire because of today’s rain across the fire area. Rain is forecast for tomorrow. Fire managers expect little to no growth over the rest of this week.

The fire is about 30 miles northeast of Delta Junction.