First Confirmed Wildfires of the Season Detected in Noatak National Preserve – Alaska Wildfire Information

The first confirmed wildfires of the season have been detected in the Noatak National Reserve. On June 13, fires were reported by the Galena Fire Management Area office. The cause of the fires is currently undetermined.

• The 135-Tututalak Fire is located approximately 32 miles northeast of the village of Noatak and approximately 5 miles east of the confluence of the Kelly and Noatak Rivers.
• Light 131-Urgoon is located 22 miles northeast of the village of Noatak and approximately 8 miles south of the confluence of the Kelly and Noatak rivers.

The Alaska Interagency Coordination Center is monitoring the fires. Fires will be actively managed if a threat is posed to people or property, as well as Alaska Native land. The safety of the public and firefighters remains the top priority in all fire management activities.

Wildfires are common in Noatak National Reserve and national parks in the Western Arctic. Many fires go unnoticed due to their distance from human habitation.

For more information on wildfire air quality, visit the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation's wildfire smoke information page:

Stay informed

Wildfires are a crucial and natural process in Alaska's boreal forest and tundra. Ongoing research in Noatak National Preserve is informing wildfire management strategies and actions. For more information on wildfires in Alaska's national parks, please visit the Wildland Fire page.

More than 95% of wildfires in Noatak National Reserve are caused by lightning. Backcountry travelers and subsistence users can help reduce fire risks by using caution with campfires and cooking fires. Always make sure your campfire is completely extinguished and cool to the touch before leaving it unattended.

Contact: Jon Nicholson, 907-412-1434, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska.

Categories: AK Fire Info, Alaska NPS

Tags: Alaska Fire Season 2024, Alaska Fire Season 2024