The state of Alaska was moved to PL-4 (Preparedness Level 4) yesterday due to the current statewide fire situation. For detailed info on fire maps, lightening strikes, fire weather and outlook reports we often refer to the AICC (Alaska Interagency Coordination Center) Website.
These are Alaska fire maps from the AICC website as of June 18, 2015.
Left: the Parks Highway corridor; Right: a statewide map.
The Sockeye Fire in Willow has been the most devastating to the dog mushing community thus far. AICC lists 422 personnel fighting the 7,000+ acre fire as of June 17th. There are quite a few other dangerous fires in the state; including the Kenai Peninsula/Card Street fire near fellow Iditarod musher, Mitch Seavey’s home.
There are many personal stories about fires in and around Alaska. Many of us want to help. Remember that many people who were displaced by fires have not been allowed back on their property yet – it is too dangerous. Their true state of affairs is not entirely known. There are ways to help now – here is an article by the Alaska Dispatch News: ‘How to Help’. I am sure there will be many more ways to help in the near future when the actual process of rebuilding lives can begin. Until that time many people are still hoping for the best as firefighters continue to amaze the affected communities.
Thank Aliy for the update, we are sending prayers for all affected.
Thank you for this post and maps, keeping my fingers crossed for everyone in AK, best,
Margaret
WOW – what a data link:
http://fire.ak.blm.gov/aicc.php
Thanks again ever so much!
Best, and got my fingers crossed for everyone, 2 and 4 legged,
Margaret
Thanks for the useful information
Thanks for the "how to help" link. I had found one of the links, but was glad,to see all the others. The firefighters are selfless in their work. I am humbled by their sacrifice as well as all the others lending a hand in the forefront of all of this (I.e emergency crews, Red Cross, neighbors) etc…. Many days ahead with rebuilding and opportunities to lend a hand. i love the reports of people stopping by to water the dogs and scoop poop. Sometimes the most simple things mean the most in the moment of need.
Thank you so much for this post. The fires raging there are a natural disaster beyond belief. In addition to homes and livelihoods being destroyed, it's sad that these fires are destroying the awesome magnificence of the Alaskan terrain. I continue to send prayers to all affected by the fires and to the firefighters who are fighting to contain it.
Even more, thank you so much, Aliy and SPKennel, for the links to places where I can help. Unfortunately, we don't get this information in this part of the country. If I can help one musher or one dog, I will.
I am so worried about these fires….the lightening strikes, the careless humans with their campfires and cigarettes….Smokey can't be happy right now! Thank you for the donation links….I want to help the area mushers directly and they have a nice donation web site set up! Hope some much needed rain falls soon….a week long soaker would be nice Mother Nature!
Thanks for helping me direct my charitable contribution this week.