Sawtell Peak Fire caused by lightning
ISLAND PARK, Idaho (KIFI) - UPDATE 9/3/22: Fire crews on the Sawtell Fire near Ashton and Island Park made progress yesterday and the fire is now 5% contained.
Crews expect the hot temperatures and strong winds to test the existing firelines.
Spot fires, caused by burning fir trees and other fuels have been the biggest challenge to put out.
At last report, the fire has grown to 40 acres.
Firefighters are asking travelers in the area to be mindful of fire operations and pay attention to closures in the Sawtell area.
UPDATE 9/1/22: The Sawtell Peak Fire is still considered 0% contained as of Thursday morning, though firefighters were able to make good progress on slowing the rate of spread during initial attack Wednesday.
Aviation resources including Helicopters, Air Tankers and Scoopers were heavily utilized.
The proximity of Henry’s Lake as a water source for aircraft allowed for quick turnaround and an increased frequency of trips.
Additionally, ground resources including engines and handcrews made good progress towards establishing an anchor point and getting around spot fires before they increased in size.
The fire has grown to 29.8 acres. Officials have determined the fire was lightning caused.
UPDATE 6:15 p.m. The Sawtell Peak Fire located ¼ mile from Sawtell Peak on the Ashton/Island Park Ranger District has burned 16 acres.
The fire was discovered around 2:00 p.m. Wednesday. Fire behavior is smoldering, creeping, spotting and isolated torching. Four large air tankers ordered due lengthy turn-around for singleengine air tankers (SEATS).
Communication sites are threatened, but no evacuations are in effect.
The cause is under investigation.
The fire is 0% contained.
ORIGINAL: A wildfire started Wednesday afternoon near Sawtelle Peak in Island Park, which is south of Henry's Lake.
The Fremont County Sheriff's Office says it has burned about 15 acres, and firefighters are there.
Low winds are helping to keep it from a more rapid spread.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
