Rabbit Foot Fire 3 percent contained
The lightning-caused Rabbit Foot Fire, 22 miles N. of Challis, has grown to 34,518 acres and is three percent contained.
Firefighter engagement was limited Sunday due to an intermittent failure of the primary radio system.
The system was tested extensively and technicians believe that the problem has been identified and solutions are being implemented.
Due to the volatility of the fuels and the difficult terrain, a full suppression strategy and indirect tactics has been implemented as the best option for successful containment and control.
At this point, the majority of the indirect line has been completed due to the hard work of the firefighters.
An opportunity in the Van Horn Creek area, allowed firefighters to move adjacent to the fireline and establish an anchor point producing a 3 percent containment of the fire’s edge.
Structure protection has also been a priority with 70 sprinklers kits already deployed.
A Red Flag Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for thunderstorms, lightning and strong outflow winds. Storms may bring up to .50 inches of rain on parts of the fire area. Temperatures will be in the mid 60’s to lower 70’s, with humidity 34-44 percent. Winds will be out of the north 12-18 mph with gusts to 55 mph.
Stage One fire restrictions remain in effect on the Salmon-Challis National Forest, Bureau of Land Management and State lands.
Fire-related area closure orders remain in effect and have expanded in response to the new fire growth. You can view the fire restrictions and area closures HERE.
The Lemhi County Sheriff’s Department will continue to notify residents regarding level 1 and level 2 pre-evacuations. Please contact the Sheriff’s department for any questions related to evacuations at (208) 756-8980.
