Washington County Officials Expand Evacuation Orders as Wildfire Near Weiser Grows
In Washington County, Idaho, evacuation orders have been expanded as a rapidly growing wildfire near Weiser continues to spread. The fire, which was sparked by lightning, has grown to approximately 95,000 acres and is only 17% contained. The blaze increased by 80,000 acres overnight from Saturday to Sunday. As a result, officials have issued 'Go Now' evacuation orders for several areas, including Upper Jenkins Creek Road and Chicken Creek area, and areas north of Olds Ferry Road. The City of Weiser has opened The Vendome as a temporary evacuation shelter, and the American Red Cross is assisting evacuees. U.S. Highway 95, which was closed due to the fire, has since reopened, but drivers are being detoured onto Manns Creek Road. Authorities are advising residents in 'Set' areas to be prepared to leave at a moment's notice and have expanded 'Ready' notifications for additional communities.