Deceitful fire jumps Beaver and Prichard creeks, evacuations ordered
Editor's note: This is a rapidly evolving situation. For the most up-to-date information, visit https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNF
The major communities of the Coeur d'Alene River North Fork area were asked to evacuate following rapid growth of the Deceitful Wildfire.
The U.S. Forest Service reports that the fire jumped Beaver and Prichard creeks Monday evening, going on an estimated 5-mile run, and was heading east/northeast toward the communities of Eagle and Murray.
As a result, Level 3 or "GO" level evacuations were put in place for Coal Creek-Prichard, Murray, Avery Creek, the White Tail Community, Eagle, Beaver Creek, and Cd'A River Road from MP 19 (Hopkins Creek) up to Shoshone Camp. Residents in those areas were urged to evacuate immediately.
U.S. Public Information Officer Kary Maddox explains that weather had everything to do with the fire's quick growth.
"We had a perfect storm of weather conditions," she said. "The movement and growth has been wind driven."
As of Monday night, closures include Dobson Pass, Kings Pass and Thompson Pass. All passes will remain open to egress for evacuation.
At the request of fire managers, Avista Utilities had powered down its lines in the area to prevent arcing and other dangerous conditions for ground crews.
Coeur d’Alene River Road remained open with speeds reduced to 35 mph.
"Proceed with caution when traveling through this area and give fire traffic the right of way," USFS stated in a news release.
Road closures are subject to change, particularly due to changes in fire activity, public and firefighter safety, tumbling debris, aircraft operations, and/or other suppression activities. The duration of these closures can vary and will be communicated as soon as possible.
Evacuation Centers for Displaced Community Members include:
•Silver Hills Elementary School, 1246 Silver Valley Road. Osburn, ID 83849 (Parking, staging, shelter/bathrooms available inside, enter on east side).
•Sather Field- Wallace School District Sports Facility, 500 Yellowstone Ave. Silverton, ID 83867 (Parking, staging only, potential bathrooms).
•Wallace Jr/High School, 1 Miners Alley, Wallace, ID 83873 (Parking, staging only).
"This is a very active situation," the SCSO stated. "Please stay out of the area. Fire behavior is changing quickly please be prepared to go immediately."
