COPPER CENTER, AK - On July 17, 2019, a small lightning-caused wildfire was reported in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. Named the Chetaslina Fire (#606) for its proximity to the Chetaslina River which originates from a glacier on the southwest flanks of Mount Wrangell. The fire is approximately 25 miles east of Copper Center. Fire behavior was reported as 80% active with running and torching. Smoke may be visible from the air and from the highway. The 5-acre fire is burning in a Limited Management Option area, where fire is allowed to perform its natural, ecological role in the boreal forest. Because it is in a Limited Management Option area, and no structures or other resources are currently threatened, the fire is in monitor status. NPS and the Valdez-Copper River Area Alaska Division of Forestry are managing the fire.
As a reminder, campfires and other activities which unduly increase the fire danger continue to be prohibited throughout Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve until further notice. Although open campfires are prohibited in the park and preserve, the use of gas grills and barbeques at campsites will be allowed. No ground fires of any type, including wood or charcoal-based fires are permitted.
Temperatures in the Copper River Basin will remain warm and mostly dry for today with cooler temperatures and some wetting thunderstorms tomorrow and Saturday. Despite the forecast precipitation, it is unlikely there will be enough rain to reach the deeper fuel levels. As a result, the fire and fuel indices as well as ignition and fire spread remain Very High.
For statewide wildfire information, visit: http://akfireinfo.com/. For additional information please contact Margie Steigerwald at 907-822-7251 or visit http://www.nps.gov/wrst/index.htm.
Tags: wildfire wrangell - st elias national park campfires
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
