Wildfire near Hammett grows to 70,000 acres overnight, says Idaho BLM
The Pot Hole Fire, located about 14 miles south of Hammett, grew to 70,000 acres overnight in Elmore County, according to the Bureau of Land Management. The wildfire is burning near the Saylor Creek Range.
The BLM said Wednesday that the wildfire was moving toward Horse Butte, and an estimated containment date for the fire was not immediately clear.
The cause of the fire, which started Tuesday, is under investigation. No structures are threatened at this time.
“The fire grew quickly, with continuous fuel, high temperatures, low humidity and moderate winds pushing the flames,” according to a BLM news release. “A wind shift late in the evening caused the fire to switch directions and make a big push towards Horse Butte, adding additional acres.”
The BLM said that firefighters conducted a burnout operation to try to slow the blaze.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates
This story was originally published August 7, 2019 at 8:26 AM.
