Elkhorn Fire scorches 24,000 acres

MCCALL, Idaho (CBS2) - It's estimated the Elkhorn Fire has scorched 24,000 acres since it started on July 24th.

Clouds and precipitation slowed the fire's progression on Friday. It remains 0% contained.

Numerous structures along the northwest side of the fire perimeter are being evaluated. Yesterday, crews completed preparation of values at risk -- including bridges, cabins, lodges, and historical sites along the river corridor. Firefighters are assessing and implementing structure protection measures from Arctic Point upriver to Lantz Bar.

Given the fire’s slow progression to the northeast, the firefighters will conduct an early assessment of the Sheep Hill lookout.

The arrival of a cold front means mostly cloudy days through the weekend along with the likelihood of light precipitation and scattered thunderstorms. According to the latest update from fire managers, the southern slopes may experience heat from the emerging sunshine. This could lead to drying fuels and localized increased fire behavior when the drainages align with prevailing winds.

Raft launching from Corn Creek has resumed. Rafters are asked to not stop in the fire area. Jet boats are operating within the burn area in support of firefighting efforts. It is best to move through the fire area in the early morning hours. Visibility within the Salmon River drainage can be reduced significantly by smoke. For additional information on rafting, contact the river desk at 208-756-5587 or 208-481-2625.

The road to Whitewater remains closed to public traffic. Currently, a Temporary Emergency Closure is in place on roads, trails, and the area east of Mallard Creek drainage and through the Bargamin Creek drainage, and north of Bat Point. Trail Closures are in place on the Payette National Forest side of the river as well. Please note that the Magruder Corridor Road is open.

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is also in place. All aircraft (including drones) not assigned to the fire are required to remain out of the TFR area. This includes those intending to land at private ranches under the TFR.

The Payette National Forest has a public wildfire information hotline for fire information – 208-634-0820. Visit Inciweb for information on large wildfires and follow the Payette National Forest on Twitter and on Facebook.

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