The Fires Of Summer Ain't Over 'Til They're Over. Tok Battles New Manmade Fires
Multiple Human-Caused Fires Near Alaska Highway in Tok BY ALASKA DIVISION OF FORESTRY & FIRE PROTECTION on AUGUST 29, 2025 Aroun...
Multiple Human-Caused Fires Near Alaska Highway in Tok
Around 5:30 p.m. yesterday, a report of smoke about 6 miles west of Tok led to the discovery of multiple fires.
Tok Forestry & Fire Protection engines, NPS module, Tok Volunteer Fire Department, Alaska State Troopers, and a forestry helicopter responded to the scene and confirmed that there were multiple new fire starts all within a 2-mile stretch of each other. All the fires appeared to be human-caused and are currently under investigation, as no lightning strikes have been recorded in the area for over 2 weeks. The fires, burning in black spruce and tundra, were not immediately threatening any infrastructure, but are in a full suppression area and close to residential areas.
Resources worked late into the night and were successful in containing all the fires. Tok Forestry will be out in the area again today to ensure there is no lingering heat.
The fires found last night include the Gravel Pit Rd Fire (#523),40277 Rd Fire (#524), MP 1320 Fire (#525), Fireweed St Fire (#526) and the MP 1321Fire (#527).
This morning, August 29th at 11 am, another fire in the same location was reported. This fire is the 1319 Alaska Highway Fire (#528). This fire was responded to by Tok Forestry resources to the 10ft by 50 ft fire burning in black spruce. Firefighters have controlled the fire and are currently on scene doing mop-up.
All of these fires are located between Mile Markers 1319 and 1321 of the Alaska Highway. Each fire has been contained to less than 0.10 acres.
Tok is currently experiencing high fire danger, and burn permits are suspended. Despite many parts of the state experiencing wetter weather, eastern Alaska has had days of high temperatures and high winds, creating conditions where fires can start easily and spread quickly.
Human-caused fires are preventable. Please be vigilant and do your part to prevent wildfires. Double-check that your campfires are cold to the touch, secure any chains that could drag and spark, and be cautious with any activities that could cause a spark. Every little bit helps protect our communities.
