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UPDATE Type 1 Hotshots ordered for Swan Lake Fire

The Swan Lake Fire was almost out when strong winds whipped it back to life Saturday night. Hot spots flared up and the fire jumped the Sterling Highway at Milepost 60 around 2 a.m. Sunday. The wind-driven blaze is exhibiting fast-paced crown-burning activity, according to Mike Hill with the Swan Lake Incident Command.
    The fire has caused the closure of the Sterling Highway from miles 58 to 75, as well as Skilak Loop Road due to encroaching flames and dense smoke. The Kenai River from Kenai Lake to Skilak Lake is also closed.
    Jim’s Landing, Hidden Lake Campground and the Kenai River Trail were all evacuated overnight. Additional closures are possible.
    Dan Nelson of the Kenai Peninsula Borough Office of Emergency Management says his department has alerted residents of Cooper Landing to be ready to evacuate within 24 to 48 hours if the need arises.
    Air quality measured in Cooper Landing was at hazardous levels Sunday morning.
    Five Type 1 Hotshot Crews were ordered and a Type 1 Incident Command Team is also on the way, along with multiple heavy water-bombers. They are expected to arrive today or tomorrow.

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