Fire Kicks Up Near Eureka Lodge: "Water Scoopers" Arrive From Palmer To Aid Blackhawks
Additional single engine water scoopers arrive at Nelchina Glacier Fire (#226) to assist with suppression efforts BY ALASKA DIVISION OF...
Additional single engine water scoopers arrive at Nelchina Glacier Fire (#226) to assist with suppression efforts
Yesterday, fire activity increased on the southwestern flank of the Nelchina Glacier Fire (#226), 4 miles south of the Eureka Roadhouse. The increase in activity required additional air resources to help with suppression efforts. Yesterday, 4 single engine water scoopers arrived in Palmer and were quickly dispatched to assist with suppression efforts on the eastern part of the fire. With the arrival of the additional aerial resources on scene late in the day, the fire growth was kept in check and the fire had minimal growth. The fire has grown to approximately 3,350 acres in size and 80% of identified protection objectives have been met.
As the fire’s potential to grow in size and complexity, more resources will be required for suppression efforts to be successful and objectives to be met. Orders have been placed for additional Type 1 and Type 2IA, 20-person fire crews in addition to miscellaneous overhead to support the crews on the ground. As the number of personnel increases, a larger incident command post (ICP) along the Glenn Highway must be established to support the logistical needs of our firefighters. Today, fire managers will begin evaluating other locations along the Glenn Highway for the new and improved ICP that will be required to support the firefighting operation.
After routine maintenance yesterday, the UH60 Blackhawk from the Alaska National Guard will be back on scene today assisting with water drops on hot spots. With the additional helicopter, the number of water drops will increase along the fire’s perimeter, reducing the spread potential. Joining the helicopters, air tankers will support firefighting efforts today. The Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) continues to be active for all aircraft not assigned to the fire. For more information and specifics on the revised current TFR in place please visit https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr3/.
A community meeting for the communities affected by the Nelchina Glacier River will be held at the Mendeltna Community Chapel in Nelchina at 6:00 pm, On Tuesday, July 01. Fire managers will be on hand to update the community on fire activity, planned suppression actions and answer any questions about the fire.
