A Level 1 “Ready” evacuation alert has been issued by state emergency officials for several communities in the Interior region of Alaska, including Central and Circle Hot Springs, due to a surge in wildfire activity.
The alert, issued Friday afternoon, applies to:
- The community of Central
- Steese Highway from Milepost 123 to Milepost 151
- Circle Hot Springs Road and Circle Hot Springs
- Deadwood Creek Road
Multiple wildfires burning in the area have grown significantly in recent days, fueled by dry conditions and gusty winds. Fire crews are actively working to contain the blazes, but heavy smoke and proximity to populated areas have prompted the alert.
The Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection warns that travelers should expect traffic delays and restricted access on the Steese Highway, Circle Hot Springs Road, and Deadwood Creek Road due to firefighting operations and the proximity of the fires to major transportation routes.
A Level 1 “Ready” alert is the first step in Alaska’s three-tier evacuation system and does not require immediate departure. However, residents in the affected areas are being urged to:
- Prepare for potential evacuation orders
- Make plans for vulnerable family members, including those with special needs, as well as pets and livestock
- Gather essential items such as medications, important documents, and valuables
- Stay alert and monitor updates from emergency officials
Meanwhile, firefighting efforts are expanding across the region. On Friday afternoon, four smokejumpers parachuted in near Mile 34 of the Salcha River, about one mile south of the lightning-caused #NinetyeightFire (#199), which is burning near the border of the Yukon Training Area, east of Eielson Air Force Base.
The fire, estimated at 800 acres when the jumpers landed around 1:30 p.m., was spreading moderately to the northeast. It is burning through grasslands and transitioning into mixed black and white spruce closer to the river, posing an increased threat to nearby structures.
Smokejumpers have begun structure protection efforts at a cabin in the area, and additional firefighting teams are preparing to boat up the Salcha River to assess the situation further. The reconnaissance mission will help officials collect key data to support structure protection planning for communities and remote properties along the river — not just from the #NinetyeightFire, but from other active fires burning about 30 miles upriver.
Fire managers stress that this activity is part of a broader, coordinated response to what is shaping up to be an intense wildfire season in Alaska. Alaskans in the region are encouraged to remain vigilant, follow guidance from local authorities, and be prepared to act quickly should evacuation orders become necessary.
For the latest information, visit akfireinfo.com or follow @AK_Forestry on social media.