Idaho is seeing a busy start to fire season with multiple active incidents burning from the northern panhandle to the southeastern desert. Here is a rundown of the three most notable fires currently burning across the state.
Gold Run Fire -- Shoshone County (Near Kellogg)
The Gold Run Fire ignited south of Interstate 90 near the Elizabeth Park and Big Creek areas just southeast of Kellogg in Shoshone County. The fire prompted Level 2 (Be Set) evacuation orders for residences in the Big Creek and Elizabeth Park neighborhoods, though those orders have since been partially downgraded as crews gained improved control of the perimeter.
The forested terrain in Shoshone County poses significant suppression challenges, with the fire burning in mixed conifer and grass fuels typical of the Silver Valley area. Resources from the Idaho Department of Lands and the U.S. Forest Service are assigned to the incident.
Shingle Creek Fire -- Idaho County (Near Riggins)
The Shingle Creek Fire ignited on the afternoon of Sunday, June 21, approximately six miles southwest of Riggins in Idaho County. The fire started in the vicinity of homes on Shingle Creek Road near the Rapid River drainage -- steep, rugged canyon country that presents significant access challenges for ground crews.
The Salmon River District of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest is the managing unit for the incident. Due to the proximity of structures and the steep terrain, air resources have been a critical component of initial attack. Residents along Shingle Creek Road should monitor the Idaho Department of Lands PBS Warn notification system for any evacuation status changes.
Gap Fire -- Bannock County (Near Pocatello)
The Gap Fire broke out in Bannock County in the Portneuf Gap area between Pocatello and Inkom. The Bureau of Land Management reported the fire was first called in around 1:45 p.m. and burned approximately 200 acres before crews were able to get ahead of it. A brief evacuation order was issued for structures near the perimeter but has since been lifted.
Conditions Outlook
Idaho fire managers are watching the incoming high-pressure system closely. The National Weather Service forecasts single-digit relative humidity across southeast Oregon and southern Idaho this week, with westerly winds gusting to 30 mph on the Snake River Plain. These conditions are conducive to rapid fire spread and could test initial attack resources if multiple fires start simultaneously. Residents across Idaho are urged to check local burn restrictions before any open burning.