Firefighters across Alaska are working around the clock as wildfires continue to burn across the state. While recent rain has helped in some areas, warm, dry weather returning this week could bring more challenges.
Crews are actively working to contain the Nelchina Glacier Fire, burning near Eureka Lodge along the Glenn Highway. Rainfall helped slow the fire, but low cloud cover delayed crew arrivals until late Thursday. With firefighters now on the ground and heavy equipment in place, efforts are focused on reinforcing containment lines. A Type 3 Incident Commander has taken over management, with more personnel and equipment en route.
Elsewhere:
- The Ninetyeight Fire is seeing mop-up progress, particularly on its southwest and southern flanks. Buckets from helicopters are cooling active areas.
- The Turtle Fire near Mile 148 on the Steese Highway is being worked by smokejumpers and two Type 2 crews. Smoldering continues along both the north and south flanks.
- The Alligator Fire (#265) remains active, especially on its north side. Crews are constructing lines and laying hose with smokejumpers and the Smith River Hotshots.
- The Birch Fire (#256) is holding steady at 2,700 acres. Crews are now constructing indirect handlines and mopping up hot spots on the fireโs southern edge.
- The Sand Lake Fire (#292) and Twelvemile Lake Fire (#220) remain stable, aided by recent rainfall. No new fire growth was reported.
Other updates:
- Bonanza Creek Fire grew slightly to 2,623 acres. Air resources are targeting hot spots, especially along the southwest side.
- Goldstream Creek Fire now stands at 6,099 acres. Fire breaks and structure protection efforts continue along the west side.
- The Otter Fire, caused by lightning, is now 90% contained. Crews expect full containment by Monday night.
- Meanwhile, helicopters, scoopers, and drones continue to assist on fires like the Himalaya Road and Aggie Creek Fires, both of which remain active. Ground crews are installing hose lays, cutting fire lines, and using dozers to slow potential spread near residences.
In Bear Creek and Saint George Creek, crews are mopping up and improving structure protection. Evacuation orders have been downgraded in most areas, though portions of the Parks Highway between mileposts 260 and 276 remain in โGOโ status.
And in Alaskaโs Interior, several large fires in remote areas northeast of Tokโlike the River Trail Fire and Kechumstuk Creek Fireโcontinue to burn but are not currently threatening structures. These fires are being monitored from the air. Firefighters are making steady progress, but with dry conditions and warmer temperatures ahead, crews remain on high alert.
