BOISE COUNTY — The Highway 55-Mile Marker 73 Fire north of Horseshoe Bend is 80 percent contained, according to an update Saturday evening from the Idaho Department of Lands.
Idaho 55 remains open without restrictions, but travelers are urged to use "extreme caution" due to the potential for falling rocks and vegetation on steep slopes that have become unstable due to fire activity.
The Idaho Dept. of Lands also advises that as crews begin to transition to fire line repair and removing equipment from secured areas, travelers may encounter higher numbers of fire vehicles and people working on or near the highway. Air support will also continue, but travelers are asked to keep moving and to not stop to watch the helicopters, as stopping along the roadway or under flight paths poses a threat to public safety.
The fire has burned 4,653 acres of grass, brush and timber.
A total of 316 personnel with 16 engines and five helicopters remain committed to the fire, which started Wednesday afternoon.
Firefighters working Saturday strengthened already existing fire lines on the entire perimeter, but focused on the northeast flank. They've also been looking for any hot spots that flared up during burnout operations, and conducted mop-up procedures to make sure the fire lines are secure.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.