Wildhorse Fire nearing 75,000 acres, Carey residents on standby for possible evacuations

CAREY, Idaho (KIFI)—Residents near Carey remain under a Level 2 "Set" evacuation status as firefighters continue battling the Wildhorse Fire, which has burned more than 74,000 acres across south-central Idaho.

The Wildhorse Fire was estimated at 74,316 acres and 10% contained as of Thursday afternoon, according to fire officials.

The Blaine County Sheriff's Office issued a Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation order Wednesday night as the fire moved toward the southern edge of Carey, prompting immediate evacuations. Officials lowered the status to Level 2 Thursday morning as fire conditions improved.

A section of U.S. Highway 26/93 between Carey and Richfield was also temporarily closed because of the fire but has since reopened to traffic.

In neighboring Lincoln County, the sheriff's office has issued a Level 1 "Ready" evacuation notice for residents living in and around Richfield, advising them to remain alert and be prepared to leave should conditions worsen.

Fire crews continue working to slow the fire's spread and are conducting backburning operations when conditions allow. Officials said residents may notice increased smoke in the area as firefighters carry out those efforts.

The Wildhorse Fire was sparked by lightning Monday afternoon. Officials are urging residents to stay informed about changing fire conditions and evacuation notices.

You can see the latest information at watchduty.org