Interior Alaska currently has two staffed fires, the Tatlanika Fire (#246) and the McCloud Fire (#472).
Tatlanika Fire (#246) – The 31,421-acre Tatlanika Fire continues to burn in the Tanana Flats between the Tatlanika Creek to the west and Wood River on the northeastern edge. Smoke from the fire has drifted over the Interior and may remain until winds shift. Low precipitation and temperatures in the 70s and 80s continue to dry out fuels, making them conducive to burning. These conditions have allowed for moderate fire behavior, with an increase of activity on the southern edge of the fire.
19 personnel are engaged in indirect fire suppression efforts, creating 20-foot-wide fuel breaks on the southern and western edges of a previously identified Native allotment sitting near the fire’s northern edge. Hose and pumps are being plumbed along the newly constructed fuel break.
Aerial assessments conducted via helicopter by Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection firefighters have identified structures near the south end of the fire. Firefighters will triage the structures and increase protections nearby as needed.
The Tatlanika Fire was first reported on June 20th near the Tatlanika River. Under a Limited Management Option, it was originally in an area that had no immediate threats to life or property. It has been allowed to burn while being closely monitored by the Division of Forestry & Fire Protection. This burning allows natural ecological processes and environmental benefits to occur. No evacuations have been issued, and no additional infrastructure or communities are currently threatened.
McCloud Fire (#472) – Suppression efforts continue on the 1- acre McCloud Fire, located west of Old Murphy Dome Road. A six member SMOD (suppression module) from Southwest Alaska arrived at the incident last night to assist eight Smokejumpers. They completed saw line and hose lays around the fire’s perimeter, declaring it contained Thursday afternoon. Firefighters will continue to monitor for any remaining heat.
During Initial Attack, Smokejumpers discovered a lost individual. Alaska State Troopers were notified, and the individual was escorted to medical assistance.
Categories: Active Wildland Fire, Alaska DNR - Division of Forestry & Fire Protection (DFFP)
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 