CCC fire burns 200 acres

Fire crews continue to battle a fire two miles north of Cataldo in the vicinity of the CCC road.

The CCC Fire is now estimated at 200 acres burning in very dry grass and timber and is zero percent contained. Heavy aircraft support dropping retardant and water reportedly made it possible for two hot shot crews to work well into the evening yesterday constructing fire line securing the ridgeline.

Five engines plus heavy equipment are on scene with additional assets in route. Five helicopters will be available to perform water drops.

Fire crews will continue direct engagement of the fire where they can safely do so. Terrain in this area is steep and burning materials have been reported rolling downhill, creating hazardous conditions. Dozers will back up yesterday’s retardant lines.

Today’s expected fire behavior will be similar to yesterday, with single and group tree torching, short range spotting, and active flanking and backing.

Weather today will be hot and dry. Several structures are reportedly risk. No evacuations have been ordered.

The CCC Road from Cataldo to Wall Ridge Road is closed. The Trail of the Coeur d’Alene bike path is also closed from Cataldo to Kingston. Boaters on the river are asked to avoid the lower Coeur d’Alene River from Albert’s Landing to Cataldo for safety reasons, as helicopters will be using the river to resupply water.

The public should not stop on area roads to view the fire. Smoke can be expected along the I-90 corridor from Kingston through Cataldo.

A temporary flight restriction is in effect to provide a safe environment for fire aircraft operations.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.