JULIAETTA, Idaho – The Idaho Department of Lands has released new information on the status of the Gwen Fire and the new plans to hopefully begin containment.
Update July 30 10 a.m. – The Gwen Fire begins containment after fire crews were able to secure a perimeter.
Slight rain fall in the region helped keep the flames low allowing fire crews to mop-up the perimeter.
Containment has reached 10% as of Tuesday morning.
Firefighters planning on attacking the fire intensely as a short cold and rainy front moved in.
Evacuations are still in place and active maps can be found here.
Fire officials are reminding people that for safety reasons if you are asked to leave your home, please go.
Update July 29 8 p.m. – The portion of U.S. Highway 12 that was closed due to the Gwen Fire has now reopened. The Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office said they also be re-opening McGary Grade Road, Hubbard Gulch and Gifford Ruebens Road.
The Gwen Fire has burned 28,805 acres and the Idaho Department of Lands say they plan secure a fire perimeter line today.
A dozer line was completed on the northern side of the fire which will aid the firefighters in keeping it contained and staying west of Pine Creek.
Containment is slowly moving and remains at 0% but IDOL says good progress has been made.
A community meeting will be held tonight at 6 p.m. at the Lapwai Elementary School at 170 Agency Road.
Community members are encouraged to attend and ask questions or bring up any concerns.
