Idaho is tracking four large fires as part of the current national fire surge, with two incidents drawing particular attention this week: the Elder Fire near Worley in Kootenai County, and the emerging Upper Smith Fire northwest of Bonners Ferry.

Elder Fire — Kootenai County

On July 10, 2026, a wildfire ignited near U.S. Highway 95 in Worley, prompting Kootenai County Emergency Management to issue evacuation orders for nearby residents. In an unusual development, those evacuation orders were lifted approximately 23 minutes after being issued, as firefighters were able to contain the threat rapidly.

Officials credited the quick response of local fire crews and favorable conditions at the time of initial attack for the swift resolution. No structures were reported damaged and no injuries occurred. The highway remained open throughout the incident, though drivers were advised to use caution while crews worked near the roadway.

The Elder Fire serves as an example of how rapid initial attack can prevent a small fire from becoming a catastrophic event — particularly important given that Idaho currently has four large fires listed in the national situation report.

Upper Smith Fire — Boundary County

A more significant emerging incident is the Upper Smith Fire, located approximately 20 miles northwest of Bonners Ferry in the Smith Creek drainage off the Kootenai River Valley. The fire was ignited by lightning in overnight hours and is being monitored by firefighting agencies in northern Idaho.

The remote location in rugged terrain presents challenges for ground crews, and aerial resources are expected to play a key role in suppression efforts. Residents in the Kootenai River Valley area northwest of Bonners Ferry should monitor local fire information channels for updates on any access restrictions or evacuation notices.

Idaho’s Broader Fire Picture

Idaho currently has four fires listed as large fires in the NIFC national situation report, reflecting the statewide pressure from hot, dry, and at times windy conditions. The National Weather Service has identified much of the Inland Northwest, including northern Idaho, as under elevated fire weather risk through the coming week.

Idaho Department of Lands and cooperating federal agencies are maintaining heightened staffing levels across the state. Recreational visitors to national forests and Bureau of Land Management lands in Idaho are reminded to check current fire restrictions before their visit, as many areas have enacted Stage 1 or Stage 2 restrictions prohibiting campfires and other potential ignition sources.

Stay Informed

  • Sign up for Idaho county emergency alerts through your county’s emergency management office.
  • Check InciWeb at inciweb.nwcg.gov for current incident information.
  • Visit the Idaho Department of Lands website for current fire restrictions and updates.
  • Report new smoke or fire immediately by calling 911.