Roundabout Complex

## Roundabout Complex Fire Report - July 29, 2025 ### Fire Start, Size and Growth **Start Date/Time/Location**: The Roundabout Complex, primarily consisting of the Moldy Fire (#279), has been active through July 2025. Specific ignition dates for all fires within the complex are not consistently detailed in recent reports, but the Moldy Fire was active as of June 15, 2025. The fires are located near Huslia, Alaska. **Size and Containment**: As of July 26, 2025, the Moldy Fire, the main active fire in the complex, encompassed approximately 72,875 acres and was 66% contained. Other fires within the Roundabout Complex are either in monitor status or contained. **Fuels, Growth and Rate of Spread**: The Moldy Fire has exhibited periods of extreme fire behavior, including rapid growth. For instance, it grew by about 10,000 acres in one day due to strong northwest winds. However, recent cooler and wetter weather, including rain, has moderated fire activity and slowed its spread. The fire has been observed moving through a 15-year-old burn scar and carrying atypical fuels like silty bank willow, indicating extremely dry conditions. **Containment Efforts**: Firefighting efforts have focused on point protection measures, such as securing Native allotments and critical infrastructure like Huslia's microwave communications tower. Crews are also engaged in mop-up and securing fire lines. The Northern New Mexico Type 3 Incident Management Team has been managing the complex, with an Alaskan team set to assume command. ### Emergency Information **Evacuations and Sheltering:** **Evacuation Orders/Warnings**: As of the latest reports, there have been no changes to evacuation levels, and no new evacuation orders or warnings have been issued for the Roundabout Complex area near Huslia. Some areas, such as portions of Butch Cut Avenue and Jack Wade Road, are at a Level 1 "Ready" status, indicating preparedness for potential evacuation. **Evacuation Shelters and Information**: Information on specific evacuation shelters is not detailed in the provided reports. Residents are advised to monitor local alerts for any changes. **Road and Infrastructure Closures:** Specific road closures directly related to the Roundabout Complex have not been detailed in recent updates. However, general advisories for travelers in wildfire-affected areas in Interior Alaska include exercising caution and being aware of heavy equipment and firefighting resources operating along roads like the Elliott Highway. **For more information, visit:** * [Alaska Fire Information](https://akfireinfo.com/tag/roundabout-complex) * [BLM Alaska Fire Service](https://akfireinfo.com/2025/07/25/blm-afs-fires-update-crews-continue-work-as-fire-managers-prepare-for-chance-of-warmer-weather-possible-increased-activity/) * [Alaska 511 Road Conditions](https://511.alaska.gov/map) ### Current Impact **Impacts:** **Structures and Infrastructure**: Firefighters have successfully protected key infrastructure, including Huslia's microwave communications tower, and are actively securing Native allotments to prevent damage. No structures have been reported as destroyed or significantly impacted by the Moldy Fire in recent reports. **Lives Lost and Injuries**: No injuries or accidents have been reported among firefighters or residents. **Power Outages**: No specific reports of power outages or utility disruptions have been noted. **Safety Concerns:** **Air Quality**: Smoke from the fire may be visible from and impact the Village of Huslia, particularly as fire activity potentially increases. Smoke-sensitive populations are advised to limit outdoor activities during periods of smoke impact. **Burn Bans and Fire Restrictions**: While not explicitly detailed for this complex, general fire restrictions and advisories are common in Alaska during the fire season due to dry conditions. ### Ongoing Outlook **Containment Projections**: With 66% containment reported as of July 26, 2025, efforts are ongoing to secure fire lines and complete mop-up operations. Fire managers are monitoring weather forecasts for potential increases in fire behavior if warmer, drier conditions return. **Weather and Wind Warnings**: The region has experienced variable weather, including periods of strong winds and dry air that have fueled fire activity, followed by cooler, wetter conditions that have moderated it. While rain has fallen recently and is forecasted, fire managers are prepared for the possibility of increased activity with the return of warmer weather later in the week. ### Cause and the Role of Weather and Climate **Cause**: The specific cause of the Moldy Fire or the Roundabout Complex fires has not been detailed in the available information, though lightning is a common ignition source for fires in Alaska. **Weather and Climate**: The fire's behavior has been significantly influenced by weather patterns, including periods of dry, windy conditions that have led to rapid growth. Conversely, recent rain and cooler temperatures have helped to slow the fire's spread. Climate change is recognized as a factor increasing the risk of large, frequent, and severe wildfires in Alaska due to rising temperatures and longer growing seasons. This trend suggests a potential for increased fire activity in the future. ### **For more information, visit:** * [Alaska Fire Information - Roundabout Complex](https://akfireinfo.com/tag/roundabout-complex) * [BLM Alaska Fire Service Updates](https://akfireinfo.com/2025/07/25/blm-afs-fires-update-crews-continue-work-as-fire-managers-prepare-for-chance-of-warmer-weather-possible-increased-activity/) * [Alaska Wildland Fire Information](https://wildlandfire.alaska.gov/)

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