Mat-Su landfill fire draws multi-department response near Palmer-Wasilla corridor

A construction debris fire at Mat-Su Central Landfill partially closed the borough's primary solid waste facility overnight Monday, limiting access for haulers and landfill customers while smoke drifted toward the Palmer-Wasilla Highway corridor, a major commuter route connecting the cities of Palmer and Wasilla.

At 7:04 p.m., the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Department of Emergency Services confirmed the blaze: "There is currently a construction debris fire at the landfill, and multiple fire crews are actively on scene. Please avoid the area to allow emergency responders to work safely."

Central Mat-Su Fire Department and Lakes Fire Service Area both responded, drawing on two of the borough's 15 designated fire service areas, which can be deployed together on multi-agency incidents. A later borough update said an excavator would be used overnight to break apart the burning debris cell. No injuries were reported, and the fire was contained by 8 p.m.

The landfill site was partially closed to the public while crews worked, affecting residents and contractors who rely on the facility. Residents along the Palmer-Wasilla Highway corridor were advised to monitor smoke conditions and take precautions.