Sockeye Fire Slows Overnight

Cooler temperatures and calming winds slowed the progress of the 6,500 acre Sockeye Fire overnight.  As the day heats up and winds resume, however, the fire could continue to spread.  The entire area around the Sockeye Fire is under a red flag warning for extreme fire danger.

Sam Harrel, spokesman for the Alaska Division of Forestry, says that firefighters do have one advantage today that they did not yesterday.  According to Harrel, “Yesterday, we chased the fire. Today, it’s going to wake up and we’ll be waiting for it.”

The status of the Parks Highway between miles 67 and 77 remains in “a constant state of fluidity” according to Beth Ipsen, spokeswoman for the Alaska State Troopers.  The last official report is that a pilot car is being used to escort vehicles in one direction at a time.

The evacuation zone from Mile 78 to Mile 63 of the highway remains in effect.  Borough spokeswoman Pam Ness says that the borough’s focus is on evacuation right now.

As many as 40 buildings have been destroyed by the fire so far.  The total number of homes damaged or destroyed is still being assessed.

The borough will hold a press conference at noon to provide updates on the Sockeye Fire.  KTNA will broadcast regular updates throughout the day and will make regular posts to Facebook and Twitter.