Wildfire in Tok, Alaska damages 20 homes, forces evacuations; FEMA issues first fire aid grant of the year
A fast-moving human-caused wildfire near Tok, Alaska has grown to roughly 3,000 acres, damaging 20 homes and forcing Level 3 evacuations. FEMA approved the first Fire Management Assistance Grant of the year to help Alaska, covering up to 75% of eligible firefighting costs.
A fast-moving wildfire ignited Monday morning near Tok, Alaska along the Alaska Highway near Sundog Trail, prompting evacuations and a large-scale response.
Named the Mukluk Fire, it grew from about 20 acres at noon Monday to roughly 3,000 acres by Tuesday morning, damaging 20 homes with more threatened.
Level 3 evacuations remain in place north of the Alaska Highway from Mackenzie Trail to E 5th Street. Power outages left many without water.
FEMA authorized federal funds for the fire — the first Fire Management Assistance Grant declaration of the year to help Alaska wildfires. The FMAG covers up to 75% of the state's eligible firefighting costs.
An incident management team is traveling to Tok. More smokejumpers from outside Alaska have been requested. Increased humidity has slowed the spread.
Translated by 119zj