Date: June 19, 2015
Contact: Kathleen Kelly, (907) 683-9504
Very high fire danger exists in Denali National Park and Preserve due to a lack of recent precipitation, high winds and hot, dry weather. Park officials have determined that it is necessary to prohibit the use of all open fires and activities, which unduly increase the fire danger.
The term "open fires" refers to any flame source not immediately extinguishable or controllable and applies to any form of wood or charcoal-based fire, even in established fire rings. Use of gas grills, backpacking or camp stoves using fuel or compressed canisters which can be regulated and shut off are still permitted.
Fire restrictions within the park generally correspond to fire restrictions put in place by the State of Alaska; however, they are managed independently by the National Park Service. Decisions to lift or continue restrictions will be made by park staff and based on the wide geographic range and diversity of available fuels within the park boundaries.
The National Weather Service has issued red flag warnings for continued hot, dry and windy weather conditions throughout the Denali area. These weather conditions contribute to extreme fire conditions that would promote large fire growth very quickly. When high fire danger occurs, given an ignition source, fires can quickly spread.
Open burning restrictions will be lifted when areas receive at least 1/4 inch of precipitation and/or when fire danger moderates.
While there are no fires in Denali National Park and Preserve, there are 49 fires burning in the state of Alaska. Wildland fire managers ask visitors and residents to stay informed of fire danger and changing conditions this summer. We all have a hand in a safe fire season.
