Alaska Wildfires Expected at Average to Above Average Levels

Alaska Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry expects an average level of rainfall this summer and calls the risk of wildfires average to above average.

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By Natalie Travis

Story Created: May 2, 2011 at 1:52 PM AKDT

Story Updated: May 2, 2011 at 8:14 PM AKDT

According to Deputy Director Dean Brown of the Alaska Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry, there are 47 fires that have been recorded this year statewide. Brown expects an average level of rainfall this summer and calls the risk of wildfires average to above average.

Sam Albanese, warning coordination meterologist for the National Weather Service in Anchorage, predicts that for the next three months there will be equal chances for precipitation and temperature. “It seems like it's just going to be a normal summer,” he continued.

Albanese said the problem this time of year is that once snow melts and grass becomes exposed and drier it becomes “a fine fuel” for fires. “But once you get green up and there is precipitation, you are usually okay,” said Albanese.

Last week, Alaska Governor Sean Parnell signed a proclamation that designates May 2 through 8 as Alaska Wildland Fire Prevention and Preparations Week to increase wildfire awareness, prevention and preparedness.

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