Year: 2025

Work continues on the Turtle Fire as backhaul operations begin on the Ptarmigan Complex

The weather area forecast for the Ptarmigan Complex continues to call for scattered moisture, cooler temperatures, and potential thunderstorms over the next few days. Fire activity across the complex yesterday was minimal, with creeping and smoldering observed.  As more of the fires in the complex transition to monitor status and no heat is detected, backhaul operations are beginning with pumps and hose being removed from fires where the threat is no longer perceived.

Welcome rain stalls growth on the Roundabout Complex

The Moldy Fire (#279) remains the only active fire within the Roundabout Complex, now totaling 73,085 acres. Rain fell overnight and continues this morning. Firefighters have continued success with point protection measures, such as with Huslia’s microwave communications tower. No changes to evacuation levels and no firefighter injuries or accidents were reported.

Rain slows fire behavior as crews push ahead with structure protection on the Himalaya Road, Aggie Creek, and Obrien Fires

Rain fell over all three fires yesterday. Structure protection is complete in areas immediately threatened by the Himalaya Road Fire (#223), Aggie Creek Fire (#268) and Obrien Fire (#172). Crews are nearing completion of indirect lines south of Aggie Creek Fire and the Mount Taylor Hotshot crew is assessing the feasibility of direct line construction along the fire’s southern perimeterwhile fire behavior is minimal. Structure assessments were completed yesterday along the Elliott Highway west of Obrien Fire, and a structure protection plan will be developed today.

Protection efforts on Goldrun Complex aided by rain

Wetter weather has arrived in the Kobuk Valley where the nine fires of the Goldrun Complex lay between Ambler and Kiana, an area that had not received significant precipitation since late June. This change in weather reduced fire activity and aided firefighters in their efforts to protect Alaska Native allotments, structures, and other values at risk.