Firefighters Contain Brief Breakthrough on Eastern Flank
Firefighters managing the Upper Smith Fire in Bonner County have maintained control of the blaze despite a brief but tense moment early Wednesday when flames crossed the primary containment line on the fire’s eastern flank.
A finger of fire on the eastern slope backed down off a knob and crossed the control line early Wednesday morning, but crews responded immediately to secure the escaped fire. The quick action prevented what could have become a significant setback in containment efforts on a fire that has burned approximately 1,648 acres since ignition on July 8 following a lightning strike.
The fire remains 15% contained, with 406 personnel assigned to the effort. Resources include six helicopters, seven hand crews, 12 engines, 12 water tenders, and assorted heavy equipment. Helicopter crews have been conducting bucket drops on the east flank to suppress advance.
Crews are using deliberate firing operations—intentional, controlled burns—to remove fuel loads ahead of the main fire’s progression. This strategy aims to slow the fire’s march and protect containment lines. About 75% of the area needed to tie the eastern flank to a rocky outcropping has already burned, clearing natural fuel in that direction.
Evacuation Orders in Effect; Weather Threat Continues
Residents in the Westside and Smith Creek evacuation zones were ordered to leave Tuesday afternoon as a precautionary measure. Evacuation orders moved to “Go” status at 4:40 p.m. Tuesday, following a community meeting held Monday at Mount Hall Elementary where roughly 30 residents gathered for updates.
Deputies are manning a roadblock at the intersection of Big Bend and Kerr Lake roads. The Boundary County Fairgrounds has been designated as a resident rally point for those displaced by the fire.
The southern flank of the fire has locked into Long Canyon near a 2022 fire scar, which is slowing advance in that direction. The fire has reached Smith Creek and progressed most of the way toward the mouth of the canyon, backing down slope toward containment lines near Westside Road.
Fire weather conditions remain a significant threat. A fire weather watch is in effect through 11 p.m. Saturday, with forecasters predicting strong winds and low humidity that could lead to rapid fire spread. The temporary flight restrictions over the fire zone remain in place, with maximum penalties of up to $100,000 in fines and up to one year in federal prison for violating the restrictions, such as flying drones in the zone.
Smith Creek Road and Long Canyon Trail are closed to public travel.
Crews Preparing for Extended Operations
Thursday’s focus shifted to securing and mopping up the area where the fire briefly escaped containment. Crew leadership indicated at Monday’s briefing that suppression work would likely continue for two to three days, though conditions and weather developments could extend that timeline.
Fire operations supervisor Trevor Unsworth characterized the response to Wednesday’s breakthrough in positive terms. “We got folks on it right away and they got that all caught and secured,” Unsworth said, adding that “everything is going super well” overall.
The Upper Smith Fire was first reported July 8 following a lightning strike that occurred between July 7 and 8. Since initial detection, it has grown to nearly 1,650 acres, making it a significant incident for the region during what has been an active fire season across Idaho and neighboring states.
Residents in evacuation zones should monitor emergency alert systems and local sheriff’s office communications for updates on evacuation status changes. The Bonner County Sheriff’s Office and interagency fire command continue coordinating response efforts.
What Comes Next: Firefighting crews will continue suppression and mop-up operations through the weekend, with focus on preventing further containment line breaches. Deteriorating fire weather expected through Saturday could accelerate fire growth or create new tactical challenges. Additional updates are expected as crews assess conditions and adjust strategies based on weather and fuel conditions. Evacuation orders may be modified based on fire progression and containment success.