A Wildfire Threatening Denali National Park Entrance
In Anchorage, Alaska, a rapidly spreading wildfire is putting the entrance to Denali National Park on the Parks Highway at risk. Known as the Riley Fire, this blaze ignited around midday on Sunday and has already spread to approximately 300 acres in size.
The fire was first noticed near mile 239 of the Parks Highway, situated across the Nenana River from the town of Denali. This area sees a high influx of tourists during the summer months, making it a significant concern. The wildfire is about a mile north of the park entrance but currently poses no immediate threat to any structures, according to officials.
Responding swiftly, the Bureau of Land Management’s Fire Service team dispatched 12 smokejumpers via aircraft to combat the flames. Additionally, another 10 personnel are en route to the location to assist in suppression efforts. To support the firefighting operation, four water-scooping planes are already on the scene, with two more en route along with a retardant air tanker.
The fire is predominantly burning through an area densely populated with black spruce trees near the Alaska Railroad. As a precautionary measure, Denali National Park authorities have halted tour and transit bus services heading westbound. Day-use visitors located west of the park entrance are being transported back eastward, and various public facilities and nearby trails, including the Denali Visitor Center, have been temporarily closed.
As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for authorities to monitor and manage the wildfire to prevent any further escalation and protect the surrounding areas. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
Copyright 2024 KTUU. All rights reserved.
—-
Author : usa-news
Publish date : 2024-07-01 00:43:04
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.