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Prepared and positioned: firefighters monitor growth on the Twelvemile and Sand Lake fires

By 2025 Twelvemile Lake Fire on July 6, 2025

Aerial view of a wildfire burning in a dense forested area, with bright orange flames visible at the base of a tall, vertical smoke column rising into a clear blue sky. Surrounding the fire are rolling hills and a small lake to the right, with smoke drifting across the landscape. — Increased fire activity on the southeastern corner of the Sand Lake Fire on July 5, 2025. *Bryan Durkin, Idaho Team 1*

Heat detection tools, aviation, and on-the-ground observations showed active fire behavior and growth on both fires yesterday. The Twelvemile Lake Fire (#220) is now 19,656 acres (an increase of 1069 acres) and the Sand Lake Fire (#292) is 5188 acres (an increase of 205 acres). The increased acreage is not in the direction of values at risk and is moving away from those identified values on the northwestern side of the Twelvemile Lake Fire. On the Sand Lake Fire, activity was on the south eastern corner and moving toward the lake edge and marshy riparian vegetation.

Map showing the perimeters of two wildfires in Alaska as of July 5, 2025. The Twelvemile Lake Fire (220) is marked in red and located north of Black Lake, with a reported size of 19,656 acres. The Sand Lake Fire (292), southeast of Twelvemile Lake, is also outlined in red and measures 5,188 acres. Red lines indicate uncontained fire edges. The map includes geographic features such as George Creek, Sand Creek, and the Tanana River, as well as lakes including Twelvemile Lake, Healy Lake, and Dot Lake. Inset map at the top right shows the fire locations in relation to nearby communities including Delta Junction and Fort Greely. Land ownership is color-coded by agency (BLM, DOD, State, Private, etc.), and Alaska Highway mileposts are marked in green along the southern edge. — Twelvemile Lake Fire and Sand Lake Fire map. View printable PDF of map

Yesterday’s weather—warm, dry, and breezy—contributed to the increase in fire activity. A high of 82°F and relative humidity as low as 18% helped dry fuels across the landscape. Wetter, cooler conditions are expected to move in over the next several days, which could aid suppression efforts.

Crews worked across both fires to maintain pumps, stage equipment, and monitor hot spots. Helicopters were used to sling supplies and perform bucket work, particularly on the Sand Lake Fire. Some fire activity increased near Sand Creek, but aircraft were redirected due to heavy heat in the area. All equipment remains operational and in place for ongoing support.

Firefighters remain focused on keeping both fires in check, while preparing for changing weather patterns and continued support needs.

With Idaho Team 1 nearing the end of its assignment, preparations to transition to another Type 3 team have begun. Thank you to our partners and the community for your continued support of the crews working hard in the field.

View printable PDF of update