Update on the Beaver Creek Fire

Thousands of people are still not allowed back in their homes because of the Beaver Creek Fire burning near Sun Valley Ski Resort.

The fire has forced the evacuation of more than 2,000 properties. Monday afternoon, more than 100 people in Central Idaho were allowed to return home. The fire is only 8% contained. It has burned more than 100,000 acres.

At least 11 helicopters and 15 fixed-wing aircraft are on standby against the fire. On the ground are more than 1,200 firefighters. The Fort Hall Fire Department is also assisting. They’ve been fighting the fire since Thursday and will stay there until they’re not needed anymore.

In Hailey, Red Cross volunteers are busy opening boxes of food containers at the city’s community center. The center is serving as the Red Cross shelter. Volunteers are feeding and caring for evacuees.

Lightning ignited the fire almost two weeks ago. Firefighters have successfully kept structures safe between the towns of Hailey and Ketchum. Evacuations are still in place for many areas along Highway 75.

Late Sunday, the U.S. Forest Service said it has cost more than $13.5 million to battle just the Beaver Creek and Elk fires.