Despite gusty overnight winds, fire behavior moderated on the Nutmeg Fire burning 5.5 miles northwest of Wiseman, south of Wiseman Creek and Nolan Road. Smokejumpers monitored the fire overnight due to 20 mph winds in the area. Terrain-driven easterly winds continue to push smoke away from Wiseman as the fire slowly burns north toward Wiseman Creek. Late Saturday night, it consumed vegetation near the marshy area south of the creek, helping create a wider natural barrier between the fire and Wiseman. Fire managers continue to monitor fire growth, weather conditions, and proximity to the town, the mine, nearby cabins, and archaeological sites in the area.
Satellite imagery from Saturday afternoon estimated the fire at 127 acres.
The fire area received almost no rain, but that is expected to change in the upcoming days. The forecast has a 50-80% chance of precipitation in the area, with light winds out of the south. Due to local terrain, winds at the fire are expected to remain easterly.
The fire burning in an area designated as a Limited Management Option. The Limited Option allows wildfire to play its natural ecological role such as renewing vegetation, improving wildlife habitat, and maintaining healthy ecosystems. Fires in these areas are generally monitored unless conditions change and they threaten communities or other sites identified at risk. If that occurs, firefighters focus on protecting the specific sites rather than suppressing the main fire.
Because of its proximity to Wiseman and other nearby sites, two smokejumpers are assigned to monitor the fire and provide managers real-time updates to conditions. Their observations inform ongoing assessments and actions needed to protect nearby sites.
Terrain between the fire and Wiseman, combined with wetter weather expected to move in, could help restrict fire growth. Temperatures are forecast to be in the 50s and 60s, with a high chance of rain over the next few days.
For updated fire information, visit Alaska Wildland Fire Information (akfireinfo.com). Contact Public Affairs Specialist Beth Ipsen at Elizabeth_ipsen@ios.doi.gov or (907) 356-5510 for more information.
-USWFS-
U.S. Wildland Fire Service, P.O. Box 35005 1541 Gaffney Road, Fort Wainwright, Ak 99703
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Categories: Active Wildland Fire, AK Fire Info, US Wildland Fire Service
Alaska Wildland Fire Information 