Lightning sparks dozens of fires across Idaho
Boise ID – Nearly 200 lightning strikes pounded the Emmett and Lowman Ranger Districts of the Boise National Forest igniting at least 15 new wildfires between Schafer Butte and Elk Creek Guard Station. As of 4:00 PM on September 9 the largest fire is approximately 5 acres in size and located 7 miles northeast of the community of Lowman near Miller Mountain. The Miller Fire is demonstrating individual tree torching and long range spotting due to windy conditions and bug killed timber.
Two other fires between Scott Mountain and Deadwood Reservoir are also proving to be very problematic due to inaccessible terrain and heavy timber. Smokejumpers were able to jump within about a mile of the fire which is currently at 3 acres. The Deadman Fire is located 7 miles east of Horseshoe Bend near the top of Harris Creek and is currently a little over one acre. Good access to this fire has aided in the suppression efforts.
In addition to the smokejumpers there are several small hand crews, wildland fire engines, two helicopters, and retardant planes supporting the overall firefighting efforts.
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