Although the nation’s largest active fire has continued to grow and is now at an estimated 192,831 acres, the fire’s growth has slowed considerably with the moderate rain in the area and is now 46% contained.
The source of the blaze is still undetermined but investigators have ruled out the possibility of an abandoned camp fire as the investigation continues. The fire was discovered in the late afternoon of May 19th near mile 6.5 of Funny River Road.
It was announced on Thursday morning that the Lower Skilak Lake Campground and Boat Launch will be re-opened today.
The Division of Forestry cautions that even as the moderate rain in the area has cooled the fire, it is by no means out. They state that a significant amount of rain would have to fall to make that happen.
Alaska State Troopers have asked that anyone with information on the cause of the blaze, or information on people and vehicles in the area on May 19th, to please contact them at 907-262-4453. They say the caller may remain anonymous.