IDAHO COUNTY, ID – Efforts to contain the Post Fire in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests intensified Monday, with more than 300 personnel now assigned to the growing wildfire burning along the north side of U.S. Highway 12 near Post Office Creek.

Since Sunday, the number of personnel surged from 191 to 306 as additional resources were brought in, including four helicopters, four hotshot crews, and four initial attack modules. The fire remains at 151 acres and 0% contained, but ground crews have made significant strides in containment operations.

According to the Northern Rockies Team 5, hotshot crews are continuing to build direct fireline along the western edge and will expand eastward from the northwest corner. Helicopter bucket drops were deployed Sunday to cool down hot spots on the fire’s southeastern corner caused by a burning snag. Crews are also working to establish a secondary fuel break along Post Office Creek Road and are expected to complete direct handline around the northeast spot fire by the end of today.

Felled snags and hose lays will support ongoing suppression efforts, especially as the fire continues to burn on steep, rocky, south-facing slopes. The fire includes two large spot fires identified by infrared and unmanned aerial mapping.

Weather remains a critical factor. Forecasters expect temperatures to stay in the upper 80s throughout the week, with wind gusts reaching 25 mph and decreasing humidity. A weak ridge of high pressure is expected to settle over the area Tuesday, maintaining hot and dry conditions. Fire behavior remains moderate, but officials warn that live fuels could begin to burn as temperatures stay elevated.

No evacuations or closures have been issued, though officials continue to stress caution for travelers and recreationists along the Highway 12 corridor. A temporary flight restriction is in place within a seven-mile radius of the fire.

For official updates and fire information, visit InciWeb Post Fire page or contact 208-823-8586.