Day 6: Big Rock Fire partially contained as crews continue fighting to keep flames away from properties
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HEISE — Firefighters have partially contained the Big Rock Fire, but much work remains as they continue fighting to protect land and property.
According to the U.S. Wildfire Service – Great Basin, the fire has currently burned 2,199 acres and is 22% contained.
Officials say the fire has remained within the perimeter, and crews have achieved partial containment on the northern flank above Cress Creek.
“(Wednesday’s) operational plans include continuing to reinforce and widen the lines on the hill north of Kelly Canyon and state endowment lands to the north, secure the South Snake River Road and Heise Road, pushing further uphill to remove hazard snags and eliminate heat, and extinguishing hotspots further into the interior of the burn,” says a Facebook post from USWFS Great Basin.
Firefighters have been able to suppress the active fire, but say that heat and smoldering materials remain throughout the burned area, including the occasional torching juniper tree.
“Crews have been briefed on today’s assignments and are hard at work up the hill,” says the post.
Officials say one helicopter has been assigned for Wednesday afternoon to help with bucket drops across the fire area. Personnel are also inspecting the Cress Creek trail today to remove hazards in the vicinity and determine repair needs.
“The firefighters appreciate the outpouring of community support and understanding as they work to secure more of the perimeter today,” says the post.
EVACUATIONS:
READY – Level 1 – Evacuation Order:
Only South Snake River Road residents/property owners may pass road closures to access and check properties. Roads remain closed to everyone else; please continue to avoid the area.
Heise, Kelly Canyon, Wolf Flats, and Table Rock remain closed. Follow responder instructions.
According to the National Weather Service, the high temperature for Wednesday is 83 degrees, while the low is around 57 degrees. West-southwest wind is expected to blow at 7 to 9 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.
Area Closures:
The Bureau of Land Management has issued a temporary closure of BLM-managed lands, roads, campgrounds, and trails along the South Fork Canyon, including all river camping between Conant and Byington Boat Accesses, Kelly Island, Wolf Flats, Warm Springs, and all dispersed sites along River Road.
The Idaho Department of Lands has issued a temporary closure of the endowment lands in the Kelly Canyon block south of Moody Creek due to the Big Rock Fire. The Caribou Targhee National Forest has implemented an area closure associated with the Big Rock Fire.
This closure is in place to ensure both public safety and firefighter safety as crews continue to work in challenging conditions.
This is a developing story and may be updated as more information is available.
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