Troopers ask residents not to drive north

The State Troopers have issued a warning to motorists traveling north to Fairbanks.  Troopers are discouraging motorists from traveling on the Parks Highway north to Fairbanks unless absolutely necessary. Heavy smoke is causing poor visibility.  Troopers say if residents MUST travel in the Interior, they should consider utilizing the Richardson Highway.  Motorists currently using the Parks Highway north of Healy are traveling 20 miles an hour on many stretches of road.  There are areas along the Highway where fire crews and fire fighting equipment are staged. 

To receive updated information on road conditions go to the 511 website at 511.alaska.gov  or call 511 from any phone in Alaska.   

Dense smoke has also cancelled flights in and out of Fairbanks.  Visibility is so poor, planes are unable to land.  People needing to travel to and from Fairbanks should check with their airline.