Updated: 11:50 a.m. 4/29/19
Firefighters and first responders evacuated homes off Bluff Road in Ninilchik Saturday afternoon as they responded to what was initially a small brush fire.
According to the Kenai Peninsula Borough Department of Emergency Management and the Alaska Division of Forestry, a blaze was reported around 1:18 p.m., but winds shifted after firefighters arrived at the scene.
The flames began moving to the northeast toward homes in the area and Alaska State Troopers were able to evacuate at least two homes.
Forestry spokesperson Tim Mowry said the fire was able to melt some siding on one home, but no further damage has been reported. Mowry estimates that the blaze was able to burn 2.5 acres acres before it was contained around 3 p.m. and residents were able to return to their homes shortly after.
Ninilchik Emergency Services, Anchor Point Volunteer Fire Department, Central Emergency Services responded to the scene along with state forestry. The fire was human caused, but officials say they are still investigating the incident.
The borough department of emergency management would like to remind area residents to be extra mindful while burning and that the fire danger on the southern Kenai Peninsula is high.
The Alaska Department of Natural Resources issued a burn suspension Sunday. That suspension continued through Monday as the fire danger remained high.
For more information on burning in your area, click here.