Single Publication

Riley Fire Update, Friday, July 5, 2024

388 acres, 5% contained, 173 personnel

A rainy 4th of July cools the Riley Fire

HEALY, Alaska –The Riley Fire remains at 5% containment, as crews continue to improve the firebreak—making sure the fire is extinguished at least 25 feet from the perimeter into the fire area. The Tanana Chiefs and the Alta Interagency Hotshot Crew continue to work directly on the southern edge of the fire, working westward from the railroad. The Smith River, Golden Eagle, and Mill Creek interagency hotshot crews are building indirect line through thick alder and birch. This saw work is slow and hazardous on the steep, slippery slopes. Smokejumpers are assessing opportunities for indirect line in the northern bowl.

Many businesses are opening in the Nenana River Canyon now that electricity has been restored. Denali National Park and Preserve remains closed as long as the southern edge of the fire is unsecured. Although rain has a moderating effect on the fire, gusty winds can fan flames and increase fire behavior, as fuels remain dry despite the recent rainfall. The park will resume normal operations when it is safe for park employees and the public, and for firefighters continuing to work the fire. 

Weather: Showers on Thursday dropped a few tenths of an inch of rain on the fire. More rain is likely for Friday and into the weekend. Temperatures will remain cool through Sunday, with highs near 60°F and relative humidity above 40%.

Smoke: Strong southwest winds on Thursday pushed smoke north and east. Cloud cover trapped some smoke closer to the surface. Cooler temperatures and the rain forecast for the weekend should help moderate smoke production. This should continue the overall trend of improving air quality. Winds will continue to be from the southwest, pushing smoke northeast. Lingering smoke may potentially enhance any fog that forms and impact visibility.

Evacuations:  Some areas are in Evacuation Status with the Tri-Valley Community Center established as the Evacuation Information Center. Go to the Denali Borough website for more information.  

? Red – Go! All Bison Gulch and Antler Ridge hikers, Riley Creek Campground, and all employees housed at the Denali National Park Joint Venture facility: ANYONE IN RED AREAS SHOULD EVACUATE. 

? Yellow – Set: There are currently no locations in “set”. 

? Green – Ready: The Nenana Canyon area (aka Glitter Gulch), Denali National Park Headquarters, C-Camp. Anyone in GREEN areas should stay alert and monitor for evacuation status updates. 

Park Closures:   All visitor facilities and park operations in Denali’s entrance area are closed. Future dates will be assessed based on fire activity. The park will remain closed to personal vehicles and day use visitors until further notice. Employees evacuated from park housing are being sheltered in various facilities in the nearby town of Healy. Park officials continue to work closely with the Alaska Complex Incident Management Team, Denali Borough, and other partners to ensure everyone is taken care of. Go to the Denali National Park and Preserve website for closure information.  

Road conditions:  The Parks Highway remains open. Go to https://511.alaska.gov/ for road condition updates. 

Temporary Flight Restrictions: A new temporary flight restriction is in place over the Riley Fire until July 19. Find more information at: 4/7281 NOTAM Details (faa.gov).