07/11/2023
Morning update on the Takhini Bridge fire (XY-019). This bulletin is also available online: https://yukon.ca/en/more-resources-join-takhini-bridge-fire-response-xy-019
The Takhini Bridge fire (XY-019) was remapped to 782 hectares in size yesterday. It is an out-of-control fire receiving a full response and will continue to grow today.
Conditions are still hot and dry, but smoky conditions could lead to cooler and more humid conditions near the fire. As a result, further defensive work is planned today.
Responders will continue to prioritize keeping fire growth away from homes and the Alaska Highway while assessing and installing structure protection in the area. Critical dozer guard along the northeast portion of the fire continued to hold yesterday evening, and the fire did not grow towards the highway.
Planning is underway to build a contingency dozer guard along the base of the Ibex ridge to help contain the fire’s southeastern head, which is currently burning parallel to or away from the highway. Aerial ignitions will be assessed going forward to remove fuel between established guard and the fire, but these operations require favourable winds to take place.
Today 32 firefighters, four wildfire officers and a SHOT structure protection team are being supported by four helicopters and two air-tanker groups. These resources include an AS-332 Super Puma helicopter that can carry 3,800 litres of water in its bucket.
An Incident Management Team is being formed to support the operations response. This group will include dedicated logistics, planning, administrative and information resources assigned to XY-019.
The Alaska Highway remains open for public use. If you are travelling in the area, avoid stopping on the highway or any side roads near the fire so that firefighters can safely travel through the area.
Parts of the Ibex Valley are still under evacuation alert. Visit https://wildfires.service.yukon.ca to see the locations, size and control status of all Yukon wildfires.
