Swan Lake Fire roars to life, jumps Sterling Highway

As predicted, a cold front moving onto the Kenai Peninsula from the north, bringing with it strong winds and dry air, has literally fanned the embers of the Swan Lake Fire back into life. The weather caught the firefighters with less than 20 personnel staffed to the fire. At its peak, over 500 firefighters battled the blaze.
    Residents of Cooper Landing were issued a Level 1 (least serious) Evacuation Alert to be ready to leave, in case one is needed.
    The fire has crossed the Sterling Highway to the south at milepost 60. Traffic has been reduced to one lane with a pilot car. Skilak Loop is closed due to fire approaching the roadway and limited visibility in dense smoke.
    The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and the Chugach National Forest both closed trails, campgrounds, fishing spots and public use cabins. They include the popular Russian River Ferry, Skyline Trail and the K’Beq (k’BEK) historical site.
    Air quality was measured at hazardous levels Sunday morning and are not expected to improve through the weekend.
    KDLL will have updates throughout the weekend as needed.