Interior Alaska fires flare, prompting new evacuations and Parks Highway closure

Interior Alaska fires flare, prompting new evacuations and Parks Highway closure

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Hot, dry, windy weather fed several fires burning near Fairbanks and Healy in Interior Alaska on Wednesday after several days of cooler weather allowed firefighters to make progress.

Lush Fire utilizes water scoopers to protect Alaska Native Allotments

Yesterday, fire behavior on the Lush Fire (#199) was active with small wind-driven runs, flanking, and backing. The most active area of the fire was on the southwest corner. Smokejumpers were inserted into that corner to construct direct line and keep fire out of the Alaska Native Allotments. Later in the day, helicopters with buckets and then water scoopers performed effective operations on this area. They were also utilized on the northern fla…

Temporary closures remain on Parks Highway near Nenana due to wildfire smoke

The Nenana Ridge Complex Fire has caused closures on Parks Highway between mileposts 308 and 341. Heavy smoke reduces visibility. Travel is not advised; delays and closures continue.