BLM AFS Smokejumpers mobilized Tuesday to fire near Kiana – Alaska wildfire information

BLM Alaska Fire Service firefighters responded Tuesday to a wildfire that appeared to have started on a Native allotment on the Kobuk River in Kiana, northwest Alaska. The diversion fire (#126) quickly consumed a mixture of tundra and black spruce. The 12 smoke bombs, supported by a BLM AFS Galena Management Zone helicopter performing water drops, successfully contained the fire to approximately 80 acres. They worked diligently until late at night to secure the edges of the fire and prevent its spread.

The fire was first reported around 2:30 p.m. by a local aviation service and residents. Several individuals were already trying to put out the fire when smoke bombs arrived from Fairbanks.

The wildfire is located on the north side of the Kobuk River, just east of Napautokik Creek, approximately 7.5 air miles east of Kiana. Although the focus remains on fire suppression, the cause of the fire remains undetermined.

For more information, contact Beth Ipsen, BLM AFS Public Affairs Specialist, at (907) 356-5510 or [email protected].

Categories: AK Fire Info