Wildfire — South Central Highlands, Idaho

2017-08-04 to 2017-08-12 · South Central Highlands, Idaho

Event narrative

The Powerline Fire began on August 4th 7 miles southeast of American Falls and burned grass, sage brush and juniper. Strong winds caused the fire to spread rapidly on the 5th finally reaching the size of 55,529 acres. The fire destroyed 6 outbuildings and 20 homes were threatened but not destroyed as flames reached 40 feet in length. The fire was determined to be human caused. Falling ash from the fire occurred in the city of Pocatello overnight on the 5th into the day on the 6th. Arbon Valley Highway had to be closed and many other nearby roads also were closed. Evacuations of the endangered homes was required. Michaud Creek Road, Mink Creek Road, and Trail Creek Road all closed and campers along the south fork of Mink Creek were evacuated along with resident of Pauline. One power pole was burned down and power lines downed briefly cutting power to 30 customers. The fire was 100 percent contained on August 11th.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 718424. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.