Fire Activity Continues as High Temperatures Persist in Ptarmigan Complex

Today brings more high temperatures, low humidity, and wind to the Ptarmigan Complex, resulting in heightened fire activity and smoke. Extreme fire behavior is anticipated.

The Tatanka Hotshots received an in-briefing for their assignment on the Turtle Fire (#243) on July 5. The fire displayed active behavior in its northwest section over the weekend, prompting the deployment of water scooper planes. The crew is conducting defensive firing operations along Birch Creek and maintaining established pumps and hoses around the Alaska Native allotment boundary near Mile 148 on the Steese Highway. If necessary, they will continue their operations along the fire’s northern edge with aerial support.

Meanwhile, the eastern edge experienced fire backing down the hills and advancing into flats. Prevailing winds pushed the flames back onto itself across the tundra. Big Sky Helitack plans to prepare structures and allotments along the Yukon River starting Monday.

In the southwest, the Black Hills Module successfully kept the fire on Birch Creek’s eastern side, utilizing tactical firing operations to manage its progression. Today, additional tactics will be explored to mitigate the fire’s spread. The Turtle Fire, ignited by lightning on June 19, is located roughly 10 miles east of Central.

The Alligator Fire (#265) has shown limited activity, with creeping and smoldering fire behavior. An engine crew alongside Big Sky Helitack continues to focus on mopping up, while the Birch Fire (#256) remains monitored for growth. Level 1 “Ready” Alerts are active for local communities, advising residents to prepare for potential evacuations.

For air traffic updates, NOTAM #06/201 is in effect due to increased firefighting aviation operations near Central Airport.

For ongoing updates and information, visit BLM Alaska.