Lightning-caused fire near Skwentna grows to more than 100 acres

A fire northwest of Skwentna has grown to more than a hundred acres as of Wednesday morning.

The Kichatna Fire is believed to have been ignited by lightning after thunderstorms moved through the Northern Susitna Valley Monday evening.  According to the state fire map, the fire is potentially threatening fifteen structures in the area.  Air tankers and helitack have been aiding the Pioneer Peak,  Gannett Glacier, and White Mountain ground crews.

Logistics for the firefighting crews are being handled out of the Talkeetna State Airport.  Because the Kichatna Fire is in a remote location, planes and helicopters are being used to transport crews and supplies.

Lightning also started two other fires west of Talkeetna and north of Skwentna, but they have not grown nearly as large. 

KTNA will continue to share updates as they become available.  More information from the Alaska Division of Forestry is posted at akfireinfo.com.