Orogrande residents living near the Williams Creek Fire in southeastern Idaho County were allowed to return to their homes Monday after a Level 3 “Go” evacuation notice was rescinded by the Idaho County Sheriff’s Office.
The public will not be allowed onto the Crooked River and Deadwood roads leading into the area because standing dead trees remain a hazard and could fall without notice, a news release from the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest said. The Williams Creek Fire was ignited by lightning Aug. 29 and has burned about 15,773 acres. It is considered 15% contained and 185 engines, 10 helicopters and two hand crews have been battling the blaze. Firefighters are continuing to extinguish hot spots and secure property in the Orogrande and Crooked River corridor. Crews are also assessing structure protection in the Red River Valley should the fire progress toward that area.
The smoky conditions in north central Idaho over the weekend maintained cooler temperatures and a slight decrease in fire activity in the forest.
Meanwhile: The Twin Lakes Fire, located 23 miles southwest of Elk City, is at 973 acres and is 19% contained. (Lewiston Tribune)
