Date: July 23, 2009
Contact: Fire Information Office, (907) 529-0511
Contact: Tina Boehle, (907) 644-3414
McCarthy, Alaska— Today’s activities for the Pioneer Peak Hotshot crew, three engines, and the Volunteer Fire Departments from Strelna and McCarthy involve identifying water sources, safety zones, and fire hazards for the six residential areas. These resources are also prepared to support suppression efforts as needed. The Augusta Hotshot crew remains staged along the Chitina River, to respond as needed to situations along the northern and northwestern perimeters. Firefighters will conduct burnout operations if conditions are right.
Yesterday, activity remained at a moderate level, with some areas of isolated torching. Helicopters with buckets were on standby, but the natural fire behavior did not pose a threat for spotting next to the north side of the Chitina River.
Streamlining operations during future events and increasing safety were the take home messages during Wednesday’s public meeting held at the Tony Zak Community Center. Thirty local residents attended to familiarize themselves with fire activities and the Public Preparedness and Emergency Notification Plan for the McCarthy and Kennecott areas. Regular public meetings will be held each Wednesday at 6:00 pm in front of the Tony Zak building until further notice.
Smoldering and creeping fire behavior continues to create a mosaic of burn severity across the fire area. These conditions will contribute to having a range of fire effects that improve regeneration of forage for wildlife while maintaining vertical cover. This mosaic will also aid in reducing the severity of future fires. Firefighters warn that even though the fire behavior has moderated somwhat, there is still potential for a drying spell to bring the fire activity to a level of concern.
- Total Acres: 32,000
- Crews: 2 Type 1
- Engines: 7
- Helicopters: 3
- Total Personnel:108
Weather conditions vary based on local wind patterns and fire activity. The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation website serves as a resource for air quality information and how you can protect yourself from smoke:
The road from Chitina to McCarthy is open. Drive with headlights on and exhibit caution as you may encounter areas of heavy smoke and low visibility. Pilots should check NOTAMs and Temporary Flight Restrictions. For those who fly in the vicinity, be aware of fire related helicopter and fixed-wing traffic and the possibility of sudden decreased visibility.The local victor frequency is 122.9.
For additional information, visit , email, or contact the local Fire Information Office at (907) 529-0511 or Tina Boehle, NPS contact in Anchorage for interviews: (907) 644-3414.
