Rim Fire increases to 500 acres
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POCATELLO,
Idaho – Propelled by 45 mph wind gusts, the Rim Fire burned actively throughout
the night. The fire, now estimated to be 500 acres in size, has slowed its
progress this morning due to cooler temperatures but remains actively burning
in juniper patches. Sandy terrain is impeding vehicle access and firefighting
crews are hiking in to continue operations. Crews are focusing on reducing fire
activity on the east and west side of the perimeter to keep the fire along the
rim of the canyon and prevent it from dropping down into the river corridor.
At this
time no structures are threatened and the cause of the fire remains under
investigation. Resources on the fire remain the same with four engines, one dozer
and one hotshot crew on scene.
There
is an abundance of grass across eastern Idaho thanks to the cool, wet spring. And
following two weeks of hot, dry conditions, the fuels are drying out quickly. While
temperatures are expected to drop for the next few days, it doesn’t take much
for local grasses to cure and become easily susceptible to fire. It is
important to practice the same care with fire while on public lands regardless
of the temperatures.
Both the BLM and Forest
Service are reminding everyone that fireworks are prohibited on lands managed
by both agencies across the state. Check for restrictions in your area before
burning or lighting fireworks. For more information on current wildland fires,
fire restrictions, and fire prevention in Idaho, visit www.IdahoFireInfo.com.