PC: J.Hale/DFFP
The Mukluk Fire (#487) is 16% contained. The secured portion is in the community of Tok. Satellite mapping estimates the fire at 5,077 acres, though heavy smoke and clouds obscured portions of the north and northeastern edge. Acreage is expected to change as improved mapping becomes available.
167 fire personnel are assigned to the fire. Tuesday’s suppression efforts were supported by multiple air tankers with retardant, two water-scooping aircraft inbound, multiple helicopters and an air attack platform. The arrival of retardant-capable air tankers has strengthened the aerial response.
Protecting residents, firefighters and property remain the priority. No additional structures were reported impacted Tuesday. The northwest edge of the fire remains the most active, while crews continue working near homes on the southwest side. Dozers, smokejumpers, engines and other firefighters are building fireline through thick spruce along the western and northeastern sides. The fire has crossed Red Fox Drive and continued northeast toward the Tanana River, but has not crossed the river. Crews are evaluating values at risk along the river. Cooler temperatures are expected later this week, but no wetting rain is currently forecast.
Level 3 GO! evacuations remain in place north of the Alaska Highway from Mackenzie Trail to East 5th Street, including Red Fox Drive. The Alaska Highway remains open. Residents must not enter the evacuation area. Returning residents can block access and delay firefighters. Additionally, active fire, hazardous materials, downed power lines, hidden ash pits, and fire-weakened trees remain significant hazards.
More than 100 people attended Tuesday evening’s community meeting in Tok. A recording is available on the Division of Forestry & Fire Protection Facebook page and YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/akR3Zl_zyoI?si=bNaMVdjjywusNWb9
We appreciate the outpouring of support for residents affected by the Mukluk Fire. For now, please hold off on sending large donations or supplies to Tok. As a small community, Tok can quickly become overwhelmed by unrequested goods. Local organizations and emergency management partners will share specific needs as they are identified. Please wait for those requests before sending supplies or donations.
For additional fire information, call the Tok Fire Information Line: (907) 505-0362
Categories: Active Wildland Fire, Alaska DNR - Division of Forestry & Fire Protection (DFFP)
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 