Wildfire nears Parker Creek area

BONNERS FERRY - A wildfire continues to creep into the Parker Creek area 7 miles southwest of Porthill in northern Boundary County.

Started by a lightning strike on July 29, the Parker Ridge Fire has grown to 263 acres and is zero percent contained.

Idaho Panhandle National Forest officials said fire activity will be minimal through the morning but is expected to become more active as temperatures increase in the afternoon. While temperatures are predicted to be seasonal with highs in the mid 70s, IPNF officials said they expect fire behavior to pick up as fuels continue to dry.

The large number of standing dead trees within and around the fire presents a substantial safety hazard to firefighters, according to IPNF press release. Adding to concerns are numerous dead trees which are extremely unstable and may fall over at any given time.

Due to safety concerns, the Parker Ridge Trail (No. 22) is closed.