Idaho is facing a challenging start to the height of fire season, with four large fires listed on the National Interagency Fire Center's active fire report and roughly ten additional blazes burning across the eastern part of the state. Firefighters are working around the clock under difficult conditions as heat and low humidity fuel rapid fire growth.

Claremont Fire — Boise County

The Claremont Fire burning in the Boise Foothills has grown to approximately 4,420 acres and prompted officials to issue a Level 2 evacuation order for portions of Boise County, including areas near Mountain Cove Road. The fire has tested firefighters and resources as officials say options in and around the area are limited.

Contingency plans are being developed in case the fire escapes primary containment lines. Ground crews, engines, and air resources are deployed to the incident, working to establish and hold control lines along the fire's perimeter. The rugged foothills terrain and dry fuels have made suppression challenging.

Eastern Idaho — A Cluster of Blazes

Approximately ten wildfires were reported burning across eastern Idaho through the week of July 7-14, driven by lightning activity from summer thunderstorms and hot, dry conditions. Several fires have been controlled or contained after initial attack efforts, but others remain active.

NIFC's July 14 daily report lists four large Idaho fires on the active national roster. The National Preparedness Level at 4 means firefighting resources are heavily committed nationwide, which can complicate requests for additional personnel and equipment from other geographic areas.

Conditions Driving Fire Activity

Fire activity in Idaho has been intensified by a combination of factors this season:

  • Below-average spring snowpack in parts of southern and eastern Idaho, leading to early drying of fuels
  • Extended periods of high temperatures, with forecasters warning of the hottest conditions yet of the season
  • Low relative humidity, falling as low as 10-15% during peak afternoon hours
  • Gusty, erratic winds associated with summer thunderstorm systems, which also bring dry lightning
  • Heavy accumulations of dead and down timber providing abundant fuel

Red Flag Conditions Continue

The National Weather Service office in Pocatello issued Red Flag Warnings for Idaho fire weather zones 475 and 476 on July 11, citing gusty winds and low relative humidity from 1 PM to 9 PM MDT. Similar conditions are expected to continue through the coming days across much of the state.

Idaho residents in fire-prone areas — particularly those in the foothills, canyons, and forested regions of central and eastern Idaho — are urged to avoid any ignition sources outdoors, observe all fire restrictions, and have an evacuation plan ready. Report any smoke or fire to 911 immediately.

Current Evacuation Status

Boise County residents near the Claremont Fire are under a Level 2 "Be Set" evacuation order, meaning they should be prepared to leave on short notice. Residents with livestock, pets, or mobility challenges are encouraged to consider leaving proactively. Monitor alerts through the Idaho Office of Emergency Management at ioemergency.idaho.gov.