Funny River Wildfire

The situation has improved for homeowners, but fire crews still face a major challenge with the 182,000-acre blaze -- now the nation’s No. 1 priority wildfire -- at more than 180,000 acres.

All evacuations have been lifted -- people and families evacuated from over 1,000 homes can now return home. Most evacuation readiness advisories have been lifted although not all and ALL residents are told to remain alert and vigilant just in case. This isn't over by any stretch but they are getting a handle on it.

Governor Parnell visited the area yesterday and stayed in Soldotna overnight to attend this evening's residents meeting and show his support for the community.

Haven't heard from my kid for over a day now. Which doesn't surprise me if the danger has subsided (at least for now).

Raise a glass to the crews who backburned dozed and used shovel and pick to build the containment lines that saved the communities of Soldotna Sterling Kasilof Skilak Lake Pollard Loop and others.

And who found a wolf den on a dozer line and rescued five pups.

 

Light rain has helped dampen grasses and raise humidity. None of which will put the fire put but it does help crews fight it. 



So this thing is a long way from over contained or secure BUT the situation is a good bit less desperate than it was 36 hours ago.

Please keep the residents and fire crews in your thoughts and prayers.