Containment reaches 40% on Gold Run Fire

SHOSHONE COUNTY — Firefighters continue to make significant progress on the Gold Run Fire burning between Elizabeth Park and Big Creek south of Interstate 90 in Shoshone County. Updated mapping using field verification has refined the estimated fire size to 227 acres. Containment is now 40%.

 Firelines around the entire perimeter of the fire continue to hold. Yesterday, firefighters focused on strengthening containment lines and extinguishing hot spots ahead of today's anticipated wind event. Crews will continue mop up operations and patrol the fire perimeter to identify and address areas of concern.

Dead and damaged trees within the fire area can fall without warning, creating hazardous conditions for firefighters. Crews are removing these hazard trees as needed, but today's forecasted winds will increase the potential for falling trees and branches.

 To support suppression efforts, firefighters have installed water delivery systems around the fire perimeter. These systems include portable water tanks, water tenders, and hose lays that transport water from the fire's edge into the interior of the burned area. The additional water infrastructure allows crews to quickly access water and efficiently extinguish hot spots located away from road systems.

 An agency-operated drone equipped with an infrared camera was flown over the fire again this morning to identify lingering heat and assess areas of concern. Infrared technology allows firefighters to detect heat sources that may not be visible from the ground, helping crews prioritize suppression efforts and improve firefighter safety. Information gathered from the flight will help direct resources to locations requiring additional attention throughout the day.

 Weather conditions remain a concern. Hot and dry weather is expected to continue, and forecasted wind gusts exceeding 30 mph today may test existing containment lines. Firefighters have worked diligently to strengthen firelines in preparation for the anticipated wind event and will continue closely monitoring conditions.

 Fire danger in much of the region has increased to Moderate, meaning new fire starts have the potential to spread quickly under current conditions. Residents and visitors are encouraged to use caution with any activity that could generate a spark and to check local fire danger ratings before recreating outdoors.

 The Highwater Road between Elizabeth Park and Big Creek remains closed to all traffic, including all of Country Club Road. The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is open to pedestrian traffic. Visitors should remain alert to firefighting activity in the area and follow any posted signs or instructions from fire personnel.

 The fire remains under Idaho Department of Lands protection. Cooperating agencies include the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Wildland Fire Service, Bureau of Land Management, Silver Valley Fire Rescue, Shoshone County Sheriff's Office and Avista.

 The cause of the fire remains under investigation.