The Ptarmigan Complex experienced moderate fire activity yesterday morning due to mostly cloudy weather accompanied by a light drizzle. Activity increased slightly on the north end of the Turtle Fire (#243) as cloud cover broke and temperatures increased in the early afternoon. The area expects to see a warming, drying trend for the weekend. This may lead to an increase in fire activity and visible smoke.
A drone equipped with thermal imaging capability, referred to as UAS (uncrewed aerial system) module, has been assigned to the Ptarmigan Complex. The drone will be used to detect possible remaining heat along the perimeters of fires within the complex. Members of the public should be aware that a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) will be in place for areas where the UAS module is working each day. Please check FAA.gov for updated TFR and NOTAM notices in the area. Remember, if you fly, we can’t!
Turtle Fire (#243) – The Siskiyou Rappelers completed the construction of a helispot on the northern edge of the Turtle Fire, then became assigned to additional assignments on the complex. Due to weather conditions in the morning, the Smith River Hotshots were delayed in being transported to the line. The Alaska Range Module joined Smith River, and after being inserted on the north end of the fire, engaged in direct attack. The Tatanka Hotshots are also utilizing direct tactics, working towards Smith River and Alaska Range.
On the south and east portions of the fire, the fire behavior continued to be moderated due to weather, and minimal activity was observed.
The Turtle Fire was started by lightning. It was reported on June 19 and is burning about 10 miles east of Central, AK and 12 miles south of Circle, AK.
Buckley Bar (#264)— Siskiyou Rappelers inserted into the historic Old Trapper Cabin on Birch Creek to set up point protection and create defensible space around the structure. The fire lies about 17 miles to the southwest of Central. It was discovered on June 20 and was caused by lightning.
Deadwood Fire (#214)—Remains in monitor status. Today, a drone module (UAS) has been assigned to the incident and will use thermal imaging capabilities to check for any heat on the fire. The Deadwood Fire was started by lightning, discovered on June 20, and is located 1 mile south of Central, AK.
Birch Fire (#256) –The fire continues to be monitored by air and is held on the east side of Birch Creek. The fire was discovered on June 20, caused by lightning, and is about 4 miles northwest of Circle, AK.
Alligator Fire (#265) – The fire will remain in monitor status unless significant activity occurs. The fire was discovered on June 20, started by lightning, and is about 3 miles north of Central, AK.
A Level 1 “Ready” Alert remains in effect for the community of Central, the Steese Highway from Milepost 123 to Milepost 151, Circle Hot Springs Road and Circle Hot Springs, and Deadwood Creek Road. Drivers should expect traffic delays on the Steese Highway, Circle Hot Springs Road, and Deadwood Creek Road due to firefighting operations. A Level 1 “Ready” alert means: begin preparing for a potential evacuation; make plans for family members with special needs, pets, or livestock; gather essential items such as prescriptions, important documents, and valuables; and stay alert and watch for updates from local authorities. NOTAM #: 07/118 is in place for the Central Airport (CEM): Increased air traffic 5,000 ft MSL and below within a 20 nautical mile radius of the Central Airport (CEM) due to firefighting aviation operations.
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Categories: Active Wildland Fire, AK Fire Info, BLM Alaska Fire Service
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 