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5/27/14 KNBA News - Rain is the best hope for halting the spread of the Funny River wildfire

The Funny River wildfire on the Kenai Peninsula has grown to 156,000 acres, or almost 246 square miles. Some 500 residents were evacuated Sunday from the Funny River community and Skilak Lake Campgrounds, which remain closed. An evacuation alert for Kasilof has been lifted. Some 600 firefighters are working to extend fire lines on the northern and western sides of the wildfire to stop its spread toward Soldotna and Sterling. Fire officials say the fire started with a campfire that wasn't put out, then was fed by high winds and dry conditions. Cooler temperatures and rain are in the forecast for today (Tuesday).

Air quality advisories remain in effect in South central Alaska due to smoke from the Funny River fire.

The Tyonek fire has stayed at 1,900 acres, and is expected to be fully contained by Wednesday evening.

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