ATHOL, Idaho — The Sunset Fire, burning northeast of Athol, has burned 3,230 acres and prompted evacuations as nearly 700 firefighters work to contain the blaze.
As of August 24, the Idaho Department of Lands reports the fire is 24% contained.
Officials warn that weather conditions are expected to worsen through next week. Forecasts call for temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s, with very low humidity—conditions likely to increase fire activity, including rapid spread and embers traveling up to a quarter-mile.
Evacuations & Emergency Shelters
Evacuations remain in effect.
An emergency shelter for displaced residents has been set up at Cocolalla Bible Camp, located at 209 Cocolalla Loop Road. The Bonner County Fairgrounds is also available to shelter evacuated livestock on a limited basis.
Residents with questions can call the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office at 208-990-1881 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., or visit the sheriff’s website for updates.
Closures & Safety Measures
Forest officials have closed public access along the west shore of Lake Pend Oreille, from Camp Bay to the Three Sisters area, for safety reasons. Additional area closures are in effect in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest.
Incident management is working closely with the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office to clarify evacuation zone boundaries.
To view the most current evacuation maps and area closures click here.
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