Date: June 18, 2015
Contact: Mark Keogh, (907) 822.7223
Past and prevailing weather conditions have caused extremely dry conditions in the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. Park officials have determined that it is necessary to prohibit the use of all open fires and activities which unduly increase the fire danger.
No open campfires will be allowed in the park or preserve, but the use of gas grills and barbeques at campsites will be permitted. No ground fire of any type, including wood or charcoal-based fires are permitted.
The National Weather Service has routinely issued red flag warnings for continued hot, dry and windy weather conditions throughout eastern Alaska in May and June. This has contributed to extreme fire conditions that would promote large fire growth very quickly. Currently there are 56 fires burning in the state of Alaska, including the 9000 acre Chisana River Fire in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Vigilance is mandatory for any activities that may cause a spark. Please consider your safety and the safety of others: do your part to prevent human-caused fires.
Wildland fire managers ask visitors and residents to follow the fire prohibitions and prevent additional fire starts. We all have a hand in a safe fire season. Get statewide wildfire information.
