Twenty-nine wildfires have been confirmed across the Coeur d’Alene Interagency Dispatch Zone since a thunderstorm rolled through the region Friday. While most have been contained, controlled or called out, others continue to burn.

The Ulm Creek Fire started by lightning near the headwaters of Shoshone Creek on the Idaho/Montana border was about 400 acres Tuesday afternoon, while the Rattle Mountain Fire, about 13 miles north-northeast of Clark Fork, was at 40 acres.

Climatologist Cliff Harris said hot and dry weather have created dangerous conditions.

"The fire danger is super high," he said. "People need to be careful."

He said the temperature in Coeur d'Alene hit a record 103 degrees Tuesday, breaking the mark of 98 degrees for Sept. 2 set in 1950. It was the hottest day of the year.

In July, August and the first two days of September, Coeur d'Alene has seen just .27 inches of rain, a record low beating .57 inches of rain in 1929 for that time period.

Harris said the record for today, Sept. 3, is 100 degrees set in 1984, and that may also fall. The forecast is for 90s through Saturday before it cools down to the 70s next week.

It has only rained 8.53 inches this year in Coeur d'Alene, 5 inches below normal.

"There is cooler air ahead, but not much if any rain," Harris said. "We'll take anything we can get."

The hot spell is being caused by a large, high-pressure ridge blocking storm systems from reaching the region. Coeur d'Alene and surrounding areas were under a heat advisory and residents were encouraged to hydrate and stay indoors.

The Ulm Creek Fire has been battled by district firefighters and the Panhandle Hotshots, who worked through the weekend with help from planes.

"Despite their efforts, the fire continued to grow rapidly," the release said.

The lightning-caused Green Mountain Fire on the Sandpoint Ranger District reported Aug. 29 was about an acre and burning below Green Monarch Ridge on the north face that faces Lake Pend Oreille. 

"Through the weekend, heavy aviation support was used to keep the fire in check while crews attempted to gain access," a press release said. 

Due to safety concerns, direct tactics have not been employed, and ground personnel are working on other suppression options, the release said. An area closure is imminent.

    The Ulm Creek Fire reported Saturday burns in the Coeur d'Alene River Ranger District.