UPDATE: June 1 at 12:10 p.m.
Firefighters made significant progress overnight on the Hatwai Fire northeast of Lewiston, which has now grown to about 250 acres and is 50 percent contained.
Firefighters worked tirelessly through the night, and relief crews took over this morning. Winds have calmed, reducing active fire behavior, allowing crews to focus on securing the fire line and mopping up to prevent future issues.
In a positive turn, the Nez Perce County Sheriff lifted all evacuation orders, offering some relief to local residents.
Currently, 40 to 50 personnel are tackling the fire with the support of eight engines, one water tender, and a dozer on standby. The Idaho Department of Lands is receiving assistance from the US Forest Service, Nez Perce County Fire, Nez Perce Tribal Fire, and rural fire districts.
Original coverage: May 31 at 9:22 p.m.
LEWISTON, Idaho – The Idaho Department of Lands, in collaboration with Nez Perce County Fire, is battling an active wildfire northeast of Lewiston.
The Idaho State Police (ISP) and other emergency agencies are assisting fire crews by managing evacuations and road closures.
The impacted area includes the closed-down section of Hatwai Road between 36th Street North and Central Grade.
Due to the magnitude of the situation, the ISP urged the public to avoid the area and allow emergency crews to work towards containment.
“For your safety and the safety of our first responders, please avoid the area,” the ISP stated. “Unnecessary traffic or bystanders in or near the zone interfere with emergency operations and place additional lives at risk.”
Multiple fire units and emergency crews will continue efforts to control the blaze.
Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.
