Recent rainfall has contributed to moderating fire activity on the Oskawalik Fire, holding at 1,779 acres and 80% containment. The change in weather has provided fire personnel with a valuable window to shift priorities from aggressive suppression to reinforcing and securing existing containment lines, along with the ability to grid the entirety of the fire.
Gridding is a critical step in the “holding and improving” phase of the wildland fire response. The methodical inspection ensures hotspots are fully extinguished and that any potential heat won’t have the ability to past containment lines in place. Even with substantial precipitation over the fire area, firefighters want to ensure all heat that could threaten the line is eliminated. Gridding is a continuous effort due to the unique terrain that makes up Alaska and can be a multi-day tactical priority.
The public is reminded to remain cautious near fire zones and to respect any closures or posted advisories to ensure the safety of both the public and fire personnel.
Categories: Active Wildland Fire, AK Fire Info, Alaska DNR - Division of Forestry (DOF)
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 