HEISE, Idaho — Crews made steady and consistent progress on the Big Rock Fire outside of Idaho Falls, and rainfall on Thursday caused mudslides on the burn scar, closing some local roads.
On Monday morning, the U.S. Wildland Fire Service Idaho – Great Basin (USWFS) released its final daily update on the fire that ignited Friday, July 31. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, the fire is considered 2,142 acres and sits at 97% containment. Crews continue to secure containment lines, patrol the fire perimeter, remove hazard snags and extinguish remaining hotspots. The Big Rock Type 3 Incident Management Organization handed over operations and management back to a local Type 4 organization.
“The progress made on the Big Rock Fire reflects the dedication and professionalism of firefighters and support personnel who worked through steep and rugged terrain, hazardous vegetation types, and hot windy weather conditions,” USWFS wrote on Facebook. “Their commitment to safety and operational excellence substantially reduced fire potential while protecting the residences, resources and facilities of the Heise area and businesses.”
According to the post, some road and area recreation closures remain in effect to the public and firefighter safety. The Bureau of Land Management closures for camping at Kelly Island Campground, Wolf Flats, Warm Springs and all dispersed sites along River Road remain in effect through Sunday, Aug. 16.
Earlier this afternoon, East Idaho News reported that parts of Heise Road have been closed due to mudslides that were caused by heavy rainfall on Thursday. Active flooding and road washouts are occurring in areas near the fire. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office posted to Facebook that the Big Rock Fire burn scar is unstable without vegetation, increasing the risk of washouts, flooding and land movement. Drivers are asked to use extreme caution and follow all road closure signs and directions from emergency personnel.
