Level 2 evacuation issued for fire near Chena Hot Springs Resort outside Fairbanks

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) - A wildfire burning near Chena Hot Springs Resort has seen a large increase in activity. The Munson Creek fire, burning around 4 miles south of the resort has grown to an estimated 5,000 to 8,000 acres.

According to Cathie Harms, the public information officer for the fire, hot dry weather and wind have caused it to grow. She said fire activity had slowed earlier this week but it picked up with the warm weather.

Smoke from the fire blanketed much of Fairbanks this Thursday but a shift in wind caused it to clear into the afternoon. However a plume of smoke from the fire could be seen to the northeast of town.

As a precaution the Fairbanks North Star Borough issued a level two “set” evacuation notice for Chena Hot Springs Road east of mile 48. That means to be prepared to leave at a moments notice. The Alaska State Parks also closed the Angel Rocks trail head until further notice.

At this time, the fire is still burning in a limited protection area, but Harms says they have a plan to protect structures should the fire continue to grow.

“The crews that are assigned to the fire, both the Yukon Crew and the Tanana Chiefs Crew are ready to protect structures. The plan is in effect, they know what they’re going to do. So there is no immediate threat,” Harms said.

Hot dry weather is expected to continue for a few more days before temperatures drop. We will continue to follow the fire and provide updates as they are available.

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