The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Alaska Fire Service has announced that the Middle and Lower Salcha River Level 2 evacuation notices have been downgraded to Level 1 “Ready.” This change is attributed to moderated fire activity and successful firefighting efforts aimed at protecting cabins and other structures from the Ninetyeight Fire (#218).
All areas along the Salcha River are now under a Level 1 “Ready” evacuation status, indicating that residents should prepare for a possible evacuation.
Details about the evacuation, including maps and additional information, can be accessed through the Fairbanks North Star Borough Emergency Operations website.
To receive text notifications regarding the wildfires, residents can text WILDFIRES to 67283.
Despite the downgrade, the situation remains fluid, and residents are advised to stay alert as fires are still active in the vicinity, with Alaska currently in its fire season.
To help reduce wildfire risks, residents are encouraged to take some precautionary measures. These include moving flammable items like firewood, ATVs, and gas cans at least 30 feet away from homes.
Additionally, clearing needles, leaves, and brush from roofs, decks, and yards is important. Other recommendations include trimming grass and low branches while ensuring the first five feet around homes are free of materials that could ignite.
It is also advised to cover attic vents with metal mesh to block embers and to have water sources such as hoses or barrels ready to use.
As for the Ninetyeight Fire, it has burned approximately 15,677 acres and is currently 18% contained. Observations indicate minimal fire behavior, but firefighting crews continue efforts, particularly along the southern edge of the fire near the Salcha River.
The Tatanka Interagency Hotshot Crew from the Black Hills National Forest in South Dakota is actively involved in these firefighting operations.
Meanwhile, an engine from Elmendorf Air Force Base (JBER) is patrolling the Brigadier Road, monitoring the northern edges of the fire for any new activity.
A helitack crew is also engaged in hauling out excess supplies to support ongoing operations.
Boaters utilizing the Salcha River are advised to exercise extreme caution between Mile 30 and Mile 42 due to elevated levels of fire-related boat traffic in the area.
The Ninetyeight Fire was first reported on June 19 and is located approximately 21 miles northeast of Salcha. More detailed information about the fire can be found at https://akfireinfo.com/tag/ninetyeight-fire/.
Weather conditions are expected to stabilize, with cooler temperatures and mostly cloudy skies throughout the day. A slight chance of precipitation is forecasted, with temperatures rising over the weekend alongside a possibility of isolated showers and thunderstorms.
For additional information on wildfires throughout Alaska, visit the Alaska Wildland Fire Information website at akfireinfo.com or call (907) 356-5511. Updates can also be found on Facebook (@BLMAFS).
The BLM Alaska Fire Service, located at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, is responsible for wildland fire suppression services over more than 240 million acres of Department of the Interior and Native Corporation Lands in Alaska. They work collaboratively with various agencies, including the State of Alaska Department of Natural Resources, USDA Forest Service, and the National Park Service, to manage fire suppression and policy interpretation across the state.
image source from：akfireinfo
