Single Publication

Lost Horse Creek Fire Update
August 11, 2023

Incident Commander: Peter Butteri

Start Date: July 28, 2023
Location: 22 miles N of Fairbanks, AK
Cause: Lightning/Natural    
Fire Size: 9,505 acres
Containment: 12%  
Total Personnel: 293

(Fairbanks, AK) – The southern edge of the Lost Horse Creek Fire (#296), approximately 8 miles of the fire perimeter (32%), are targeted for containment. Three miles (12%) are currently contained, that is, we are confident the fire will not cross that line. The strategy for the remainder of the fire is to confine it to a defined area that does not endanger people or structures. To do that, we continue to work on contingency line, away from the direct fire edge.

The eastern edge of the fire that is burning into the 2021 Haystack Fire scar remains active due to dead and down fuels that create pockets of fire and dangerous conditions for ground crews to access. The southwest edge of the fire is being worked directly by bulldozers, moving eastward along the fireline. Masticators have cleared the old fuel break west to the Elliot Highway and are continuing its improvement eastward. Structure protection is in place in the Haystack subdivision and graders are repairing the road.

The Sargent Creek Fire (#255) is 100% contained and in monitor status along with Murphy Creek (#320), Treasure Creek (#265), Olnes Pond (#250), and Hayes Creek (#266). Our Creek Fire (#271) is at approximately 80% containment and in mop-up status.

EVACUATIONS: The Haystack subdivision remains at a Level 2 (SET). Although conditions are improving in the area, there is still a potential threat. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and be prepared to evacuate if necessary. For more information: Fairbanks North Star Borough, AK | Official Website (fnsb.gov); Find My Neighborhood (arcgis.com)

CLOSURES: Alaska State Parks has closed the Olnes Pond campground to support fire operations. The Bureau of Land Management Eastern Interior Field Office issued an evacuation and closure order for the western portion of the White Mountains National Recreation Area effective midnight on August 6 until September 1, unless modified. The evacuation and closure include trails, public use cabins, trail shelters, and the Wickersham Dome Trailhead near Elliott Highway mile 28, which may be used by firefighters. See: Alaska Fire Restrictions | Bureau of Land Management (blm.gov).

AIR QUALITY ADVISORY: The Tanana River Valley and areas north will continue to experience smoke from fires in Alaska and Canada. Any community adjacent to an active fire may experience periods of degraded air quality. Take measures to limit time outdoors and reduce your exposure to hazardous air quality. For smoke forecast and air quality measures, see Fire and Smoke Map (airnow.gov).

TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS (TFR) are in effect until September 9, 2023. For details, see: 3/0799 NOTAM Details (faa.gov).

Public Information: (907) 921- 2555
Media Inquiries: (907) 921- 2554

Email: 2023.LostHorseCreek@firenet.gov   
You Tube: Lost Horse Creek Fire #296 - YouTube

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