Scattered light rain occurred intermittently over parts of the Bean Complex yesterday, while some areas remained dry. This light precipitation, higher relative humidity, and lingering smoke moderated fire behavior and fire spread on the Tanana River Fire (#310) on the eastern portion of the complex. Meanwhile, on the west end of the complex, the Chitanana Fire (#315) and Bitzshitini Fire (#312) showed some growth where exposed to drying wind. The Red Flag Warning applying to the complex has been lifted after nearly two weeks in place.

Smoke frequently limits visibility and the ability for aircraft to reach all areas of the complex, impacting the ability to deliver firefighters and logistical support. Firefighters sometimes must rely on a fleet of boats operating along the long stretch of the Tanana River that traverses the complex. Eight boats are working now to get firefighters and supplies into remote areas still needing work.

There are 226 people assigned to these fires, which have a combined total of 178,109 acres burned. The three active fires are under a point zone protection strategy which consists of taking steps to protect sites of value such as cabins, lodges and Native allotments. Firefighters will continue to identify and assess values at risk from these fires and conduct point protection work on high priority areas.

• The Hutlinana Fire (#327) is north of the Tanana River, roughly 10 miles east of Manley Hot Springs. It is 90% contained and being patrolled by air.
• The Tanana River Fire (#310) is at 23,623 acres. As the fire progresses, structures are continually being evaluated closer to the Tanana River. Approximately 58 structures and four Native allotments could be impacted by the fire. Firefighters continue mop up in the Tanana Roadhouse area, and improving the secondary fuel break between there and Deadman’s Lake. Firefighters in the field have made significant progress in containing the spot fires that crossed the Tolovana River to the west, though they are not completely contained yet. This fire is north of the Tanana River about 14 miles southeast of Manley Hot Springs.
• The Bitzshitini Fire (#312) is at 65,079 acres. Twelve structures have the potential to be impacted by this fire. Firefighters continue to hold and improve the mop up work around the cabins to the north and east of this fire, and prepare for firing operations as necessary to protect values at risk. This fire is about 23 miles southwest of Manley Hot Springs, south of the Tanana River.
• The Chitanana Fire (#315) now totals 89,000 acres.Nineteen structures and Native allotments have the potential to be impacted by this fire. Protection of the structures around Mooseheart Lake is an ongoing concern as the fire still has the potential to move toward the lake. Crews continue mopping up around the cabins, allotments, and other structures in the area and preparing to conduct firing operations as necessary.

The State Forester for the Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection issued an Emergency Burn Closure Order at 11:59 p.m. on July 1, 2022, It restricts all burning that requires a local or state burn permit, including uncontained cooking, warming, and signaling fires. With the additional risk of thunderstorms, it is critical to do your part to prevent new fires.

For more information, contact Bean Complex at email: 2022.bean@firenet.gov; or 907-921-2454

Categories: AK Fire Info

Tags: Alaska Division of Forestry, Bean Complex, BLM Alaska Fire Service