|
|
NEWS RELEASE |
Salmon Interagency Dispatch Upper Columbia - Salmon
Clearwater District BLM Salmon - Challis National Forest Rural Route 2, Box 600
|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Bill Beebe
(208) 756-5283 or Kent Fuellenbach (208) 756-5145
Clear
Creek Fire Update – July 25, 2000
The Clear Creek Fire near Salmon, ID grew to approximately 51,699 acres on Tuesday, making it the largest wildfire in the lower 48 states. Over 900 fire personnel have assembled from more than 22 states to battle the blaze, which started as a lightning strike in the Frank Church – River of No Return Wilderness, on July 10.
While the estimate of acreage increased, fire officials say that it is now approximately 20% contained. Uncharacteristically low relative humidities have resulted in the fire remaining active throughout the night. Normally, humidity levels increase during the night, providing night crews an opportunity to gain ground in their attack.
“We have some of the most highly trained and experienced wildland firefighters in this country,” said Clear Creek Incident Commander Joe Carvelho. “Unfortunately, if we don’t get some relief in the weather, we could still be working on this thing at Christmas.”
On Tuesday, the fire made a short, very intense run along Panther Creek, but firelines were successful in holding the blaze. Crews made significant progress in constructing a line near Beaver Creek, south of the current fire perimeter. According to weather forecasts, fire managers can expect continued high temperatures and gusting winds through the next few days.
Further updates will be distributed as information becomes available. Fire maps are available at the Salmon-Challis National Forest office on Highway 93 south of Salmon. For additional fire information please call: 208-756-5283. Information on these fires has been posted on the Salmon-Challis National Forest web page. You can access this web page on the Internet at.www.fs.fed.us/r4/sc/fire2000.
###