LOCHSA RIVER, Idaho — A wildfire burning in the steep terrain near Highway 12 in north-central Idaho has grown to 148 acres since it sparked on Wednesday.
The “Post Fire” is located about 14 miles west of Powell Junction. On Friday morning, the Northern Rockies Team 5, led by Incident Commander Joe Sampson, officially took over management of the fire.
Crews said that the blaze got off to a fast start on the rocky south-facing slope but has since calmed down a bit thanks to light rain and cloudy skies Thursday. Firefighters said that they are using that window to make progress, building direct fire lines where it’s safe to do so, especially near Post Office Creek in the Lochsa River corridor. A spot fire on the northeast side has also been reached.
Fire crews said that three helicopters are available to help ground crews as they continue efforts to keep the fire from threatening Highway 12, nearby recreation areas, and forest infrastructure.
Officials say it’s been a very dry spring in the area, conditions more typical of late summer—and that’s contributed to how quickly the fire grew. Temperatures are expected to stay warm, with highs in the 80s in the canyon and 70s at higher elevations. There’s also a chance of thunderstorms and small hail later today.
For now, there are no Forest closures, and Highway 12 remains open. However, a temporary flight restriction is in place over a seven-mile radius around the fire. Drivers are asked to keep traffic moving, as helicopters may be dipping water from the Lochsa River.
About 120 personnel are working the fire, including four hotshot crews, two initial attack crews, two engines, and three helicopters.
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