Despite damp weather and cooler temperatures, the Hastings wildfire near Fairbanks is still growing.
Firefighters say it's making a few short runs and creeping beyond 24,000 acres.
They're not pulling back any manpower or equipment -- concerned that two days of drizzle are not enough to stop fire growth.
“It’s not a time to let the guard down,” said Mike McMillan, fire information officer. “It’s a time for planning on how to go after it while we have the chance.”
Fire commanders said Thursday they’re making good progress, stopping the blaze in its tracks in a few places, especially where there are cabins and other structures.
At last report, 811 firefighters were battling the Hastings Fire.
Geographically, the roughly 52,000 acre East Volkmar fire near Delta Junction is larger, but about 350 firefighters are assigned to the blaze, because of its more remote location.
Crews report a high level of success in slowing fire growth, thanks to rain and less wind.
