News Release

First Confirmed Wildland Fires of the Season Detected in Noatak National Preserve

BLM Photo: Alaska Fire Service

News Release Date: June 14, 2024

Contact: Jon Nicholson, 907-412-1434

Noatak National Preserve, Alaska – The first confirmed wildland fires of the season have been detected in Noatak National Preserve. On June 13th, fires were reported by the Galena Fire Management Zone Office. The cause of the fires is undetermined at this time.

Fire 135-Tututalak is located approximately 32 miles northeast of Noatak Village and about 5 miles east of the Kelly River and Noatak River confluence.
Fire 131-Urgoon is located 22 miles northeast of Noatak Village and about 8 miles south of the Kelly River and Noatak River confluence.

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

Wildfires are a common occurrence in Noatak National Preserve and the Western Arctic National Parklands. Many fires go unnoticed due to their remote locations far from human habitation.

For information on air quality related to wildfires, visit the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation Division of Air Quality's Wildfire Smoke Information page: https://dec.alaska.gov/air/anpms/wildfire-smoke/

Stay Informed 

The current fire danger level for Northwest Alaska is Low to Moderate, indicating that fires can start from both accidental and natural causes, with the average fire being of moderate intensity. 

Wildland fire is a crucial and natural process in the Alaska boreal forest and tundra. Ongoing research in Noatak National Preserve informs wildland fire management strategies and actions. For more information about wildland fire in Alaska’s national parks, please visit the Wildland Fire page. 

Over 95% of wildland fires in Noatak National Preserve are lightning-caused. Backcountry travelers and subsistence users can help reduce fire risk by exercising caution with campfires and cook fires. Always ensure your campfire is completely out and cold to the touch before leaving it unattended.