LATAH COUNTY, Idaho — Highway 3 has reopened for traffic near the Gwen Fire.
According to the Idaho Department of Transportaion, Highway 3 was reopened around 10 p.m. on July 28. Level 3 Evacuations still remain in place for those living in Juliaetta.
Drivers should be cautious and look out for first responders and fire crews driving through the area.
Updated July 28 at 10:45 p.m. –
Evacuation zones have been downgraded to Level 1 (be ready) for portions of Latah County for the Gwen Fire. Level 3 (go now) advisories are still in place for Juliaetta residents and Level 2 advisories are set for Kendrick.
JULIAETTA, Idaho – The Gwen Fire that started Wednesday and caused Level 3 (go now) evacuations for the entire City of Juliaetta has grown to over 27,000 acres.
According to the Idaho Department of Lands (DOL), the Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team and local fire crews will spend Sunday securing the edge of the fire to protect homes and neighborhoods.
Several Whitnee Haas area homes have already been destroyed by flames.
The fire was uncontained and actively expanding as of Sunday morning. The Methodist Church in Lapwai is offering shelter and aid to victims.
Editor’s Note: A previous version of this story placed the Gwen Fire at 35,000 acres due to an overestimate by the Idaho Department of Lands.
