What is the name and location of the wildfire?

The wildfires burning near Fairbanks, Alaska as of August 7, 2023 are the Lost Horse Creek Fire and the Anderson Complex. The Lost Horse Creek Fire is located approximately 22 miles north of Fairbanks. The Anderson Complex is 8 miles south of Anderson, Alaska and about 80 miles southeast of Fairbanks.

The Lost Horse Creek Fire was caused by lightning and began on July 28, 2023. It is primarily burning in black spruce forest. The fire expanded significantly on August 2, leading to evacuation orders.

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The wildfires are impacting the following areas:

• Fairbanks North Star Borough, including parts of the White Mountains National Recreation Area.
• Upper Haystack Drive neighborhood.
• Anderson and surrounding regions, including residents along the Teklanika River, Clear Sky homestead, and adjacent areas.

Air quality was very unhealthy to hazardous in Fairbanks on August 7.

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

The containment status of the Lost Horse Creek Fire and the Anderson Complex are at 0% containment. Both are estimated to be contained by August 31, 2023.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Evacuation orders and alerts were in place for different areas affected by the wildfire as of August 7:

• Areas in "GO" status include the Teklanika River, Clear Sky homestead, and residents adjacent to Rose Hip Creek. Individuals in these areas should evacuate immediately. The Tri-Valley School is available for evacuation parking and will serve as an evacuation center if needed.
• Areas in "SET" status include Anderson and residents who use any road west of the George Parks Highway between milepost 270 and the Rex Bridge. Individuals in these areas should be ready to leave at a moment's notice.
• Areas in "READY" status include Nenana and residents who access their property off the George Parks Highway corridor between milepost 288 and milepost 306, as well as other specified areas. Individuals in these areas should be prepared for possible evacuation.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

• Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
• Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
• Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
• Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
• Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.