Big Rock Fire reaches 72% containment, several road closures still in effect

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – The Heise Fire continues to burn 20 miles northeast of Idaho Falls, burning a total of 2142 sparked by a lightning strike. As of Sunday, August 9, the fire has reached 72% containment.

The fireline along Heise Road from the Bridge to the Y has been fully contained with much of the dozer line already repaired as of Saturday evening. Fire activity is now described by BLM as "minimal," however crews continue to put out heat and smoldering materials in the area.

Crews have also secured the South Snake River Road and Heise Road, removing hazard snags and extinguishing remaining hotspots. Firefighters have expanded the perimeters around houses where smoldering material was threatening the structures.

Now, crews are focusing on repairing dozer lines and other damages brought on by the continual repression strategies used since July 31.

The lines on the hills north of Kelly Canyon, Little Kelly and 7N Ranch have been reinforced and widened. The road closures have been lifted from the Heise Bridge to east of the 7N Ranch RV park.

Roads remaining closed include Heise Road east of 7N ranch, Kelly Canyon, and River Road both east of Kelly Canyon and West of the Heise Bridge remain closed. Fire suppression activities are ongoing in those areas. BLM is continuing to ask that people avoid those areas and follow responder instructions.