Division of Forestry declares burn suspension

The warm, dry weather is causing conditions creating very high fire danger for the entire Mat Su Valley. The State Division of Forestry has instituted a temporary suspension of open burning permits including the use of burn barrels. The weather is not expected to change thru the week.

Afternoon thunder clouds could produce lightning in areas, especially along the mountain ranger and winds may pick up as temperatures rise, producing local strong winds.

Residents are encouraged to recheck old burn piles for smoldering embers and to be vigilant and practice caution.

Last Friday’s fire on KGB Road was from escaped embers from a burn barrel. Its burned 9.5 acres before it was extinguished. The land owner was cited for negligence.