A fast-moving wildfire known as the Gilmore Trail fire has triggered urgent evacuations in several Fairbanks neighborhoods. The Alaska Department of Natural Resources confirmed the fire grew rapidly to 10 acres by 9 p.m. Thursday, fueled by dry black spruce and tundra vegetation.
Fire officials initially reported the blaze between 70 and 100 acres in size and warned of intense fire behavior. According to the Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection, the fire exhibited dangerous characteristics, such as spotting and short runs ahead of the main flames.
Authorities issued different levels or alerts for other areas as the fire’s direction remains uncertain:
- Level 1 “Ready” alert covering Goldmine Trail, Winch Road, and Steele Creek Road.
- The Level 2 “SET” notice applies to the residents of Gilmore Trail, Esro Road, Amantia Road, and Smallwood Trail.
- Level 3 “GO” evacuation order for Monzulla Lane, Hopper Creek Drive, and areas north of those streets along Gilmore Trail.
Fire crews responded swiftly, deploying a helicopter, a retardant-dropping aircraft, and a team of smokejumpers to the scene. The fire is burning in a designated modified response zone, which allows flexibility in firefighting strategy while protecting nearby infrastructure.
Though the fire threatens no structure or lives, it remains visible from the Glenn Highway corridor. Travelers between mile markers 120 and 136 may seek a thick smoke column indicating the fire’s continuing growth.
Fairbanks North Star Borough residents are urged to stay updated through official sources. Live evacuation updates and guidance are available online. To receive real-time text alerts, residents should text WILDFIRE TO 67283.
As firefighters battle this fast-growing blaze, the evacuation alert remains in place to protect lives and limit risk as conditions shift rapidly. Fire officials urge readiness and caution as suppression efforts continue.
