For Immediate Release:
Contact: EIIFC Fire Information, 208-497-5934
Fire crews work
throughout the night securing containment lines on the Telegraph Fire
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IDAHO
FALLS, Idaho – Crews worked throughout the night to secure
containment lines on the Telegraph Fire, which ignited late in the afternoon on
July 8th. The fire occurred approximately 20 miles west of Idaho
Falls north of Highway 20 on lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management
(BLM). Pushed by high winds and dry vegetation, the fire quickly burned onto
Idaho National Laboratory (INL) lands. No INL buildings or power lines are
threatened.
Quick response by several fire departments and
air resources limited fire growth. By midnight, dozers from the INL and
BLM had constructed line around the
entire fire. INL crews worked throughout the night and were relieved by
additional crews early this morning. An aerial flight of the fire mapped it at 2,154
acres. Incident Commanders estimate the fire is now 50% contained and
anticipate that number will increase throughout the afternoon. Full containment
is expected by 8:00 p.m. today.
“Fire behavior is minimal this morning,” said IC
Farron Kunkel. “Our strategy today will be to strengthen containment lines to
withstand the anticipated wind event expected this afternoon.”
This morning federal crews tied in with INL
operations and will continue to mop up hotspots and bolster the existing
containment lines. Air resources are on standby at the Pocatello Tanker Base if
needed.
This human-caused fire is still under
investigation. The public is encouraged to take extra precautions as they
recreate this summer as hot weather and dry vegetation make for prime fire
conditions. Take time to make sure your vehicle is well maintained and that
nothing is hanging or dragging along the road. Don’t let your summer go up in
smoke.
*Photos will be posted
at Idaho Fire Info Facebook*
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Telegraph Fire from the air the evening of July 8 |