No IARU This Year

We are sad to report IARU is a no-go this year from KL2R.  Despite being one of our favorite contests, another wildfire has forced us to pack up most of the radio equipment in preparation for another possible evacuation. The fire, known as Stuart Creek 2, grew to about 85,000 acres in short order, and we had to evacuate on Sunday afternoon.  Earlier this week a good soaking rain helped the situation, but the northwestern fire front is still only about five miles from KL2R.  Hotter, windier weather is descending now, and we can't be complacent.  You can read more about the fire online:

http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/article/3468

Fire!

A wildfire kicks off not far from KL2R on 17 June. Unbelievable. Note the water bucket under the helicopter and our tower on the hill.  It became known as the Kanuti Fire.  One finger of the fire burned as close as 200 meters from our property.  Thankfully, it was limited to about 120 acres, and no homes were lost -- but it was a mighty close call for all of us in the neighborhood!

This is a particularly dangerous time for wildfires in Alaska.  A long spell of near-record heat (95F/35C) has dried everything thoroughly.  Lightning or a simple spark can spell big trouble in a hurry as was the case here.  The fire was man-caused, possibly by a spark from a four-wheeler/ATV.