A reconnaissance flight was conducted early this morning over the Nelchina Fire (#226), located approximately four miles south of Eureka Lodge along the Glenn Highway. The flight aimed to assess current fire activity and identify potential access points for inserting ground crews. While the mission provided important intelligence, heavy precipitation over the fire area limited visibility, making it unsafe to deploy personnel on the fire line during today’s operational period.
Despite weather challenges, aerial suppression efforts continue to play a vital role. A UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from the Alaska National Guard, along with multiple single-engine air tankers water scoopers, carried out targeted water drops yesterday. These operations were effective in slowing the fire’s progression, successfully preventing it from crossing Eureka Creek along the northeastern perimeter. Aerial resources will remain a key component of suppression efforts as fire managers develop a safe ground strategy using assigned helicopters.
Command structure is also adapting as the response evolves. A Type 3 incident commander shadowed the current leadership yesterday in preparation for a planned transition of command today. Additional overhead personnel have arrived to support expanded suppression operations.
With a warming and drying trend expected over the next 48 hours, fire managers will continue to evaluate conditions and plan for the safe insertion of ground crews to begin constructing containment lines around the fire’s perimeter.
Fire staff will host a public meeting on Tuesday, July 1, at 6:00 PM at the Mendeltna Community Church. Incident managers and suppression specialists will provide updates on current fire behavior, expected weather changes, and planned operations. Community members are encouraged to attend and engage in this important discussion.
With increased traffic expected over the Fourth of July holiday, motorists are urged to drive cautiously along the Glenn Highway between MP 126 and 138, where fire crews, engines, and aviation support vehicles will be active. Please reduce speed and stay alert to ensure the safety of both the public and emergency responders.
Categories: Active Wildland Fire, AK Fire Info, Alaska DNR - Division of Forestry (DOF)
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 