The McCoy Creek Fire saw increased activity on the north side of the fire on Sunday, and firefighters were engaged throughout the day establishing structure protection measures for cabins near the Salcha River. The main fire produced two small spot fires over the Salcha River Sunday evening around river mile 23 that were rapidly located, and firefighters constructed fireline around the spots before they could grow in size. As of the evening of August 6, no structures have been burned on the McCoy Creek Fire and the main fire remains on the south side of the Salcha River.
Photo: Structure protection measures along the Salcha River. Dane Smigleski/AK DOF
Monday is anticipated to bring slightly cooler temperatures and lighter winds to the fire area. Firefighters will use this reprieve in weather to their advantage, continuing to protect structures and maintain the fire’s northern boundary along the Salcha River. Firefighters on the McCoy Creek Fire include the Paradise Crew, the Union Interagency Hotshot Crew from Oregon, a contingent of smokejumpers, and the North Pacific Handcrew.
August 7 map of the McCoy Creek Fire. Fire managers are working to better map the fire perimeter amidst the challenge of thick smoke.
A GO! evacuation status remains in effect for Fairbanks North Star Borough residents in the Lower Salcha River, approximately from river mile 3 to 40. The Middle Salcha remains in Set status, approximately river mile 40 to 61.
Alaska State Parks has closed the Salcha River Recreation Area to the public to give firefighters the space they need to do their jobs safely. Property owners can still access the river at the boat ramp but should be aware this is an active fire area and in evacuation status. The area between river miles 20-30 should be avoided, if at all possible. In addition, the Harding Lake Campground is closed, but the boat ramp remains open to the public.
Categories: AK Fire Info
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 