The fuel dock at the Whittier harbor burned on Tuesday. Responding to the fire were units from the Whittier police and emergency services, as well as Girdwood’s fire and rescue department. Two people were evacuated by air from Whittier for medical care in Anchorage. The tunnel to Whittier was closed for several hours to give emergency responders clear access in and out of Whittier.
People in the area reported hearing a loud noise and then seeing the flames. Firefighters had the fire under control by about 2:40.
At noon, Girdwood Fire and Rescue reported that Girdwood Rescue 41, Utility 41, Medic 41, C41, and Tender 41 were responding. Two LifeMed helicopters assisted with transporting the two injured patients.
The Whittier harbor had a fire that impacted one of the floats earlier this year, and longer term solutions are still being worked on. On June 16, the City of Whittier reported that “fire-damaged floats were replaced Monday night through Tuesday this week, and staff made them fully functional for your weekend adventure.”
All three fuel pumps operated at the Shoreside Petroleum fuel dock are destroyed, and the boat in which the fire originated sank while tied to the dock. There will be no fuel available at Whittier for the near future, which means both recreational and commercial vessels will have to find fuel elsewhere, a logistical problem for all, and a financial setback for many.
