Beaver Creek Fire Update

Fire managers are expressing optimism in their battle against a wildfire that has scorched nearly 160 square miles and forced the evacuation of 2,300 homes near two central Idaho resort communities.

Officials said Sunday the fire near Ketchum and Sun Valley grew only about 12 square miles because of cloud cover the day before and the arrival of additional firefighters.

The Blaine County Sheriff’s Office said the fire still poses a threat to Blaine County. The office said Indian Creek and the Valley Club are still under mandatory evacuation orders. Lake Creek south to hospital bridge on both sides of Hwy 75 are also evacuated. This includes Warm Springs and the Cities of Ketchum and Sun Valley Residents. Residents in pre-evacuation zones with no means of transportation or who are physically unable to evacuate on their own, should ask a neighbor or call (208) 578-3367.

More than 1,200 firefighters are now assigned to the Beaver Creek Fire, which is 9 percent contained.

Fire managers say both of the nation’s DC-10 jet retardant bombers have been used, but one experienced an engine malfunction after a drop Thursday. The jet made it back safely to Pocatello in southeastern Idaho but remains unavailable.

Fire spokeswoman Shawna Hartman says nearly 90 fire engines are in the region, many protecting structures.

Lightning ignited the blaze Aug. 7. For the most up to date regarding evacuation and return notifications go to http://www.blainesheriff.com/.