Officials say several first responders were injured by the fire, and residents may have been hurt as well.
MOUNTAIN HOME, Idaho — Multiple structure fires and a fast-moving brush fire in Idaho prompted multiple evacuations and a large multi-agency response Tuesday night.
An Idaho State Police spokesperson said the forward movement of the fire just south of Mountain Home has been stopped and contained. As of 11 p.m. Mountain Time, the fire had not been named or mapped for acreage.
ISP said several law enforcement officers were injured while responding, but the extent of their injuries is unknown. Police said residents may have been injured but were unable to confirm details at the time.
Idaho State Police said emergency crews were dispatched shortly before 7 p.m. to the fire near the intersection of Smith Road and Hamilton Road in Elmore County.
An Integrated Public Alert and Warning System alert was issued at 9:02 p.m. for areas between Highway 51 and Old U.S. Highway 30, warning residents to remain vigilant and prepare to evacuate.
An Idaho State Police spokesperson confirmed multiple evacuations occurred.
ISP said that as of Tuesday night, the scene is still active, with crews continuing to search the affected areas and evaluate the damage to see when residents can return home.
An alert at 11:10 p.m. stated, “All residents except for those who live on High Desert Dr can return to their homes. If you live on High Desert and need assistance, call 208-587-2100 opt 1.”
The Elmore County Sheriff’s Office is in charge of the response, with several agencies helping with evacuations and traffic management.
Emergency officials released guidance for residents affected by the fire. Those who are injured are being directed to the Marine building near the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office at 2255 E. Eighth North for medical care. Military personnel and their families should go to the Mountain Home Airport at 2614 Airbase Road, where they will be transported to the base. Residents displaced by the fire are advised to go to the Elks Lodge at 325 S. Third West to receive assistance from the American Red Cross.
The fire is near the city limits and is being handled by local fire departments. First responders requested assistance from the BLM, including one overhead engine and two fire engines.
Authorities are asking the public to avoid the area to allow emergency crews to work safely and to watch for emergency vehicles.