Firefighters continue their determined efforts to contain the Ninetyeight Fire (#218), achieving 40% of their containment objectives despite persistent warm and dry conditions. Saturday’s fire behavior remained minimal, marked by creeping, smoldering, and isolated torching. The most concentrated heat continues to be located in the fire’s southwest corner and northern edge.
Crews are now concentrating their efforts on the southern perimeter—targeting remaining heat pockets and removing vegetation to strengthen the fire line. Personnel on the northern edge remain vigilant, monitoring activity near military assets.
Today, USFS Region 10 and Big River crews will work together to advance containment along the Salcha River Corridor. Sprinkler systems are being installed in areas where the fire continues to smolder in the tundra layer. Personnel will continue to monitor the north. Two helicopters are also available to support operations with supply transport and water drops.
Drying and warming conditions are expected to continue through the weekend, with high temperatures reaching the upper 70s. Winds will remain light and terrain-driven at night, shifting to northwest during the day. A slight cooldown and a chance of thunderstorms are forecast for Monday.
Public Safety Alerts:
- Salcha River Boaters: Please use extreme caution between Mile 30 and Mile 42 due to high levels of fire-related boat traffic.
- Yukon Training Area Closures: Training Areas 315, 316, 317, and 318 are currently closed to ensure the safety of both firefighters and the public.
- Airspace Restrictions: A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) remains in effect over the fire. Visit tfr.faa.gov for details.
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. Text WILDFIRES to 67283 to receive text notifications.
Additional information on wildfires across Alaska, including the Ninetyeight Fire, can be found at: Alaska Wildland Fire Information 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 