Nutmeg Fire Near Wiseman Experiences Rain

By U.S. Wildland Fire Service on July 13, 2026

Smoke rises from the low-intensity Nutmeg Fire in a broad tundra valley surrounded by low mountains under a cloudy sky. — Smoke rises from the 127-acre Nutmeg Fire near Wiseman, Alaska, on July 13, 2026. Persistent drizzle and cool temperatures are moderating fire activity as smokejumpers continue monitoring the fire. Photo USWFS

Fire behavior on the Nutmeg Fire (#397) near Wiseman remains minimal as persistent drizzle and cool temperatures continue to moderate fire activity. The fire is estimated at 127 acres based on the most recent mapping. The fire burned west of Nolan Creek before the rains began early this morning.

Two smokejumpers continue to monitor the fire and assess conditions. Today, they are conducting a structure assessment at a nearby cabin to evaluate potential values at risk and support ongoing planning. Fire managers continue to monitor weather, fire behavior and the proximity to Wiseman, the nearby mine, cabins, and archaeological sites.

Cloudy skies and showers are expected across the fire area today, with a 90% chance of precipitation and a high temperature near 59 degrees. South winds of 6 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 23 mph, are expected to increase slightly this afternoon. Overnight, showers are expected to continue with temperatures dropping to around 41 degrees. The cool, wet conditions are expected to continue moderating fire behavior and limit additional fire growth.

The Nutmeg Fire is burning within an area managed under a Limited Management Option, which allows naturally ignited wildfires to renew vegetation, improve wildlife habitat, and maintain healthy ecosystems. Fires in these areas are generally monitored unless conditions change and they threaten communities, or other identified values at risk. If that occurs, firefighters focus on protecting the specific sites rather than suppressing the main fire.

If current conditions persist, smokejumpers are expected to conclude monitoring activities and demobilize when appropriate.

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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