BLM lifts emergency fire closure in Williams Lake area
Media Contact
SALMON, Idaho—The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Salmon Field Office is lifting the temporary closure of BLM-managed public lands in Lemhi County, due to the risk of the nearby Thunder Fire. This closure no longer necessary due to the lack of fire progression. This closure is lifted as of 11:59 PM, Thurs. Aug. 1, 2024.
The temporary closure included all BLM-managed public lands south of Williams Creek Road, and west and north of Williams Lake Road. Additionally, BLM-managed public lands north and west of Lakeview Drive, including the Williams Lake Campground.
The Thunder Fire is believed to have been sparked by lightening on Wed. July 24, 2024 approximately 12 miles south and southwest of Salmon. At the time of this announcement, the fire has burned roughly 2500 acres of fir trees and grass with 50% containment. Forward progression of the fire has slowed significantly, however there are still hot spots that may put smoke in the air until significant precipitation arrives.
Public and wildland firefighter safety is the BLM’s highest priority. Please be aware that firefighting crews and emergency vehicles will still be in the area. Do not drive into smoke. The BLM encourages the public to obey all evacuation orders issued by the Sheriff’s Office. For the latest information on the Thunder Fire, visit InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/idscf-thunder-fire.
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The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.