08/17/19 Weekend Winds Bring Smoke to Communities

Smoke is being reported throughout the Kenai River drainage east of the Swan Lake Fire, including the community of Cooper Landing.  As of noon today, reports from the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge's recreational areas near Skilak Lake have shown very little smoke impact to the area south of the Fire.

Some online resources will help local residents and the visiting public learn more about smoke, its potential health risks, and up-to-date local smoke conditions through this weekend and into next week:

Smoke Sensors Deployed in Cooper Landing

Two sensors are currently deployed to record air quality in the community of Cooper Landing.  These sensors are specifically designed to measure the pm2.5 particulates that can cause health concerns.

Air Quality Readings from 8/17 at noon from purpleair.com

Go to the Purple Air website to view current air quality reports from these sensors. Click on "map" and enter "Cooper Landing, Alaska" to find local sensors. Cooper Landing sensor data can be found here. Sterling area air quality readings are here.

For more information on pm2.5 particulates, visit the EPA particulate basics website.

Online Traffic Cameras Help Check Visibility

DOT Traffic Camera from Russian River Ferry shows smoke and reduced visibility on 8/17

Before starting your drive along the Sterling Highway, check the Alaska DOT Road Weather Information System for real-time traffic camera images of roadway conditions.

While driving, keep your headlights on, reduce driver distractions, maintain speeds safe for changing conditions, and give yourself extra time for your journey to reduce any sense of urgency.

Winds Affect Smoke Impacts

Strong winds from the north are funneling smoke into local communities east of Swan Lake Fire 8/17

Among other online sources, Windy.com provides current and forecast wind models that can help anticipate where smoke will be pushed from the Swan Lake Fire.