Temporary fire information line opened for the Idaho Panhandle NF

 Due to the large number of small fires burning across north Idaho, the Idaho Panhandle National Forests have opened a public fire information line at (208) 765-7383.

Callers can expect to receive information about fire locations, road and trail closures, and safety information including evacuation preparations.

The fire information line will be staffed from 8:00 am until 8:00 pm until further notice. Extreme dryness, high winds and the large number of small fires make it very difficult to have precise information at all times. Fire information officers staffing the lines will provide the most up to date information available at the time but ask for the public’s patience and understanding as they work to constantly update and verify their information with firefighters in the field.

Throughout north Idaho there are more than 50 known wildfires currently burning, mainly at higher elevations and in remote locations. Most of the fires are less than an acre but may have the potential to grow as predicted winds and dry conditions persist. At this time there are no evacuations ordered or planned, but members of the public should be aware of the extreme fire danger and plan ahead in case of emergency.