Latest on Springs Fire near Banks, Hwy-55 still closed off
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Jennifer Auh reports on the Springs Fire near Banks, ID. Video by IdahoOnYourSide.com
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Update: Highway 55 has now reopened.
Fire crews are having some difficulties fighting the Springs Fire near Banks, ID. It has grown to almost 3,000 acres.
Highway 55 has been closed about one mile north of Bank, from Milepost 80 to 84. The fire is only 5 percent contained, with no estimate of containment.
Rocks and boulders are also rolling off the scorched canyons, and crashing onto Highway 55. The Boise National Forest said one of their vehicles was hit from a boulder about the size of a basketball.
“Startled actually and immediately when the rocks started coming down, I was able to slow down hit my breaks and swerve to initially avoid contact, but then it bounced back and hit my vehicle,” said David Seesholtz, Boise National Forest.
Highway 17 has periodic delays, and State Highway 55 near the banks area is fully closed. Fire crews recommend drivers to take Highway 95 towards Weiser to get to McCall.
The Boise National Forest sent out pre-evacuation notices to homes in the banks area, advising people to be prepared to leave their homes, just in case the fire gets out of control.
Boise National Forest Spokesman Dave Olson said nearly 300 people are working on this fire, and one firefighter was treated for heat exhaustion.
At this rate, crews said it will take at least another week to get a better handle on the fire.
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