IDAHO COUNTY, ID – Fire officials report strong progress in containing the Post Fire burning along U.S. Highway 12 in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, with containment now estimated at 45%.
The fire, which began June 10 on steep, rocky terrain 14 miles west of Powell Junction, remains at 151 acres. It has challenged firefighting efforts due to its location above a critical stretch of Highway 12 in the Lochsa River corridor — a key route for commercial traffic, recreation, and tourism.
As of Thursday morning, 308 personnel remain assigned to the incident, including 4 hotshot crews, 4 initial attack modules, 3 helicopters, and 1 engine. Firefighters have now completed all necessary control lines around the main fire and the nearby middle spot fire. Mop-up operations on the northeast spot fire have also been completed, and crews have strengthened a secondary control line between Post Office Creek Road and the middle spot fire.
Crews are now focused on removing hazardous snags, cooling residual heat, and securing fire edges. With the fire’s forward movement largely stalled and rain expected in the coming days, some firefighting resources are being released for reassignment to other incidents in the region.
Despite gusty winds and warm conditions on Wednesday, fire activity remained minimal — a sign that most available fuel within the fire’s perimeter has already burned. Winds up to 20 mph are forecast for Thursday, with relative humidity between 20 and 23 percent. Officials warn that rolling debris remains a hazard due to the steep terrain.
A significant weather shift is expected late Thursday, bringing cooler temperatures and the potential for up to an inch of rain. This system is expected to further dampen fire behavior and reduce the likelihood of future spread.
Highway 12 remains open, and there are no forest area closures at this time. A temporary flight restriction (TFR) is in place over a six-mile radius around the fire’s northwest corner.
For official updates, visit InciWeb’s Post Fire page or call 208-823-8586.
