Rain helps fire crews gain ground on Idaho blazes

Rain across much of southwestern and central Idaho’s mountains put a dent in wildfires that have kept firefighters busy for weeks.

On the Weiser Complex Fire along the Snake River’s Brownlee Reservoir, Wednesday’s moisture bolstered crews’ confidence about making significant progress toward containing the blaze that’s charred some 40 square miles.

And in central Idaho near Featherville, similar downpours helped firefighters gain ground and more aggressively push back the Kelley Fire, which has burned about 26 square miles.

Despite progress, however, some recreation areas remain closed, including due to potential flooding in torched areas.

Across the country, the National Interagency Fire Center has acknowledged the favorable turn in the weather and downgraded the nation’s fire preparedness status yet another notch.

There are currently 20 active large fires burning, NIFC reported.