The Ninetyeight Fire (#218) experienced a welcome shift in weather, with cooler temperatures, increased humidity, and light rainfall. These improved conditions allowed firefighters to strengthen and secure containment lines on the southern and southwestern flanks yesterday. On the east side, favorable weather helped crews focus on completing protection work for Alaska Native allotments. In the northern division, firefighters used defensive burning techniques to safeguard military infrastructure by removing surrounding fuels and reducing risk to critical assets.
Today’s forecast calls for continued cooler temperatures and a high chance of rain, which is expected to help moderate fire behavior. However, while the moisture may reduce the fire’s spread, it is not expected to mark the end of the fire season.
Firefighters will continue securing containment lines and providing structure protection along the Salcha River and the fire’s southwest corner. On the eastern edge, crews will initiate new structure protection efforts and maintain existing protections for Alaska Native allotments. In the north, fire activity will be monitored near military assets as the fire progresses west along Brigadier Road. Water-dropping aircraft remain available to support suppression efforts as needed.
Due to fire crews working in this area, Training Areas 315, 316, 317, and 318 in the Yukon Training Area (YTA) are closed. For public safety and the safety of fire personnel, please avoid this area until further notice.
A TFR is in place over the fire – view more at faa.gov.
The Bureau of Land Management has issued fire restrictions throughout the district. For more information, visit the BLM Alaska Fire Restrictions webpage or contact BLM at (907) 474-2200.
The Middle and Lower Salcha River evacuation levels remain at LEVEL 2 SET, which means be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. The Upper Salcha River remains at Level 1 (READY). Level 1 means “BE READY” for potential evacuation. The evacuation map and other information can be found on the Fairbanks North Star Borough Emergency Operations website at Fairbanks North Star Borough Emergency Operations
Text WILDFIRES to 67283 to receive text notifications or go to: smart911.com
Additional information on wildfires across Alaska, including the Ninetyeight Fire, can be found at: akfireinfo.com or by calling: (907) 356-5511 and on Facebook (@BLMAFS).
Categories: Active Wildland Fire, AK Fire Info, BLM Alaska Fire Service
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 