Incidents All News

The fuel and wind driven Clear Fire continues to push south, with firefighters’ primary focus on protecting homes at risk. An overnight infrared flight provided fire personnel with an accurate picture of the fire's heat and perimeter, resulting in a significant increase of acreage reported today. Later today, two Type 1 “hotshot” crews will be working in the Kobe Ag area, constructing line and protecting structures.

Monday’s shifting winds nudged the fire to the south and east toward the Kobe Ag, Anderson (not city) and Quote Subdivisions. Crews continue to make progress despite access and logistical challenges in many areas of the fire. All evacuation notices remain in effect. A community meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday, July 28 at 7 p.m. in the Anderson Fire Hall and on Facebook Live. Fire managers will provide information on the current situation for the Clear Fire. 

From Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Fire Protection: “It is with sad and heavy hearts that we share the news a pilot supporting the Clear Fire outside Anderson, AK, died in a helicopter crash. The pilot and sole occupant was Douglas Ritchie, 56, of Wasilla, AK. Wildland firefighters and aviators are a close community and are in support of the family, friends, and co-workers during this tragic time.”  

Fire Activity: The fire’s most active edge is now 3 miles north of the Kobe Ag, Quota, and Anderson Subdivisions (not city of Anderson) and following another day of fire spread to the south, the evacuation levels for these areas increased to “GO” on Saturday afternoon. Northwest Type 2 Incident Management Team 10, under Incident Commander Alan Lawson, takes over operational management of the fire today. The team spent yesterday shadowing the Alaska Type 3 Team that has managed the incident very well despite challenging conditions.