Families grapple with deep losses and daunting futures as the Bear Creek fire destroys homes across Alaska’s rugged landscape. The fire, which continues to burn through remote communities, has already consumed dozens of structures, including years of sweat and craftsmanship.
Nick Clegg Sr and his wife Kathleen spent nearly two decades building their dream cabin by hand. They carefully selected trees for the timber and added the final touches only a year ago. When the fire spread, they evacuated quickly, hoping the cabin would be spared.
At first, it survived, but the bad news came that the home was gone. The Cleggs had insurance. They plan to rebuild, encouraged by community support. However, not all residents were as fortunate. Brent Weber Jr lost everything, including his home, a nearly completed rental, and a finished cabin he planned to lease.
He said the remote location of his property made insurance impossible. Weber recalled how fast the fire moved. Surrounded by flames, he only escaped because an airplane dropped fire retardant around him. Now, he’s seeking help from the Alaska disaster relief program.
