HENRYS CREEK
FIRE UPDATE AUGUST 22, 2016, 9:00 P.M.
Idaho
Falls, ID – Firefighters continue suppression activities on the Henrys Creek
Fire (formerly referred to as the Blackhawk Estates Fire) as it burns approximately
seven mile east of Idaho Falls, Idaho. The fire is estimated to be over 10,000
acres and continues to grow, propelled by dry fuel, high temperatures and gusty
winds.
“Weather
has been a major concern on this fire,” said Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Incident Commander Cory Berkebile. “The Red Flag warning for winds today
hampered our firefighting efforts.” Extreme gusts drove the fire northeast at
an increased rate of speed. The fire jumped the Bone and Sunnyside intersection
late this afternoon and is pushing towards Willow Creek.
Bonneville
County has issued evacuation notices to individuals living in the
Sunnyside/Bone area down to Kepps Crossing. The Bonneville County Sheriff
Department has asked individuals to stay away from the fire so firefighting
operations are not impeded.
The
following areas are closed:
Intersection of
Bone and Lincoln
East Sunnyside
from Crescent Drive
Ririe Reservoir,
including Blacktail
Tex Creek
Meadow Creek
Fall Creek Road
and
Long Valley Road
Structures
are threatened at this time but none have been lost. No injuries have been
reported. Numerous resources are fighting the blaze including federal, county
and city engines. Skeleton crews will remain on scene during the night to try
to make headway on the fire before temperatures and winds increase tomorrow.
Several
drone intrusions were reported in the area yesterday. While flight operations
were not suspended, drone interference is becoming a significant issue on
wildfires. For the safety of our
firefighters, keep drones out of fire zones. Several additional air resources
will be on scene tomorrow to assist ground resources so it is even more
imperative that drones stay out of the area.
The
cause of the fire is still unknown and currently under investigation.
Wildfire
updates and fire prevention tips are available on www.IdahoFireInfo.com. One less spark means
one less Idaho wildfire.
