September 16, 2012 - Wesley Fire Update
Incident: Wesley Wildfire
Released: 9/16/2012
Great Basin Team 7, Doug Crocker IC
Phone: 208-253-3112
Internet: http://www.inciweb.org/incident/3243
WESLEY FIRE UPDATE, SEPTEMBER 16, 2012
Date Started: 09/09/2012
Cause: Lightning
Total Personnel: approx. 483
Structures: 22 threatened
Location: 12 miles NW of New Meadows, ID
Injuries to Date: 0
Size: 9,325 acres
Percent Contained: 8%
Resources: 4 Helicopters; 9 Engines; 12 Crews; 1 Dozer; 7 Water tenders
The Wesley Fire continues to burn in the headwaters of upper Lick Creek, upper Rapid River and the headwaters of upper Boulder Creek, encompassing the Lick Creek lookout. The fire is estimated at 9,325 acres moving north and northeast.
Active fire behavior continued overnight. The fire continues to back into the Rapid River drainage with occasional upslope runs to the West. Firefighters will continue to guard against fire spotting across fire lines.
Objectives today include line construction on the east side from Lick Creek to the Rapid River Saddle and mopping up and holding that line. Firefighters will also construct line up the northeast side towards Ant Butte and the old North Star Butte burn scar to keep fire west of FR 079. Fire lines on the south side of the fire near Lick Creek are holding.
On Saturday fire managers began assessing structures along the Hwy 95 corridor north of Smokey Boulder Road.
The forecast calls for a high pressure system leaving the fire area under a slightly cooler and stable northerly flow for the next couple of days. Air resources will continue to assist fire fighters with retardant and water drops as needed.
A series of four public meetings were held over the past three days in Riggins, New Meadows, Council and McCall to brief the public on fire behavior and future plans. All four meetings were well attended.
Stage 1 Fire Restrictions and road closures are in effect. For inquiries, contact McCall Ranger District at (208)634-0400 or New Meadows Ranger District at (208)347-0300.
Note: Building or maintaining an open fire outside campgrounds or picnic areas is prohibited.
Safety of firefighting personnel and public is of the highest priority.
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