Rabbit Foot fire continues to grow

The lightning-caused Rabbit Foot fire grew to 30,331 acres Thursday. It is still zero percent contained.

Firefighters were forced to disengage for about 2 hours when radio repeaters went down due to equipment failure. They returned to the fireline when radio coverage was re-established.

A red flag warning has been issued for the area. Dry thunderstorms are likely along with a 50 percent chance of rain. Gusts could reach 60 miles per hour, which could create hazardous conditions for firefighters.

Because of the fire’s location in rugged terrain, poor accessibility, and hazardous conditions, firefighters are focusing on utilizing a “confine and contain” tactic. Fire managers said that would give firefighters their best protection with the highest probability of success.

Stage One fire restrictions and area closures are still in effect on the Salmon-Challis National Forest and the Lemhi County Sheriff’s Office is still keeping a close eye the possibility of public safety evacuations.

There are 655 personnel on the fire. They are manning 14 hand-crews, 45 engines, 7 dozers, 9 water tenders, and 8 helicopters.