Pre-evacuation advisories remain in effect for several residents due to a wildfire burning just south of Riggins.
More than 400 people are working to control the 4,000-acre Rattlesnake Creek Fire burning on the west side of U.S. Highway 95. The blaze threatens several rural homes above the lower Salmon River, and is moving predominately to the south and up the river canyon.
Officials say firefighters on the southern flank are keeping pace with the fire, and protecting structures, homes, and the highway.
The pre-evacuation order remains in place for residents of Pollock and Whitewater Wilderness Ranch Estates. The Idaho and Adams county sheriff’s departments have advised residents in those areas to be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
Officials on the Nez Perce-Clearwater Forest closed an area adjacent to the fire, including the Rapid River Trail. Fire officials have asked people to avoid the area if possible and not to stop on the highway to watch the fire suppression effort or take pictures.
The fire has no containment level yet and the cause remains under investigation. (Lewiston Tribune, USFS)
