1996 Miller’s Reach Fire
Overview
On Sunday, June 2nd, a fire began on Miller’s Reach Road near Houston, Alaska. While a definitive cause was never stated, fireworks were blamed for the start of the blaze. This would mark the start of the most destructive fire to property in Alaska’s history. At first, the fire appeared controlled, and local firefighters were released. The next evening winds increased; 40 mph winds reignited the fire, which then began burning out of control. Nearly 37,000 acres burned, and 344 structures were lost. Despite the damage, firefighters’ efforts saved buildings on 934 parcels of land. Residents also took a stand to protect their homes, including many mushers who rescued hundreds of sled dogs. After the fire, there was concern from residents about mismanagement, which resulted in a 1998 class action lawsuit seeking $100 million in damages. In 2003, a jury ruled in favor of the state.
Fire Extent
Fire Timeline
June 2
Fire began on Miller’s Reach Road
Fire started 5 p.m.
Spread to 60 acres, partially contained by 10 p.m.
June 3
40 mph wind gusts
Fire expanded to 1600 acres, remained partially contained
Fire out of control by 8 p.m.
June 4
10,000 acres burned
50-100 homes burned
14 homes burned in one hour on the north side of Big Lake
Smoke spread towards Anchorage, air quality alert issued
June 5
37,000 acres burned
Fire spread in all firections
Fire moved four miles in two hours
~450 people at shelter
Fire jumps Parks Highway
June 6
Fire only miles from Wasilla
200 hotshot firefighters arrived
Wind started to diminish
June 7
Turning point
1,300 firefighters on the scene
Weather favorable to stop the fire
June 10
Fire declared contained
Fire 60% contained, though firefighters warned it could take weeks to fully burn out
344 total structures burned
June 15
Fire declared under control
Disaster Declared:
June 4: Governor Knowles declared State Disaster Emergency
June 8: President Clinton signed Federal Disaster Declaration
FEMA Individual Assistance totaled $1.87 million for 425 applicants, Public Assistance totaled $5.1 million and Hazard Mitigation totaled $1.75 million (total of $9.35 million) (in 1996 dollars)
Black Spruce as a Kindling?
Low humidity and wind drove the Miller’s Reach, also known as Big Lake, Fire. The fire burned fast and hot but did not impact all areas equally. The patchiness of the burn correlates to the patchy distribution of black spruce. Furthermore, autumn and early winter 1995-96 were exceptionally dry with precipitation at or near record low levels. The lack of significant snow cover until February meant the ground froze deep and the spring thaw did not saturate the soil. The moisture stressed black spruce were highly flammable (note: replace this image with adobe stock when access is given).