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LOWMAN, Idaho (AP) — A 125-square-mile wildfire on Wednesday moved to within a mile of the central Idaho town of Lowman where residents have been told to be ready to leave at a moment's notice.
Fire officials say burnout operations to bring controlled fire into Lowman and a nearby subdivision have been successful in burning fuel around portions of the town.
Homes are also being protected with sprinkler systems.
"Structure protection measures are in place at all of the residences and outbuildings in that area," said fire spokeswoman Kelli Gammons.
More residents in the region, including Garden Valley to the west of Lowman, are under a lower level evacuation notice and have been told to make preparations.
Officials didn't have exact numbers of those facing evacuation, but a previous notice included more than 100 homes. Officials say no homes have been lost.
The Banks-Lowman Road remains closed west of Lowman but State Highway 21 is open.
Jon Delvalle, chief for the Garden Valley Fire Protection District to the west of Lowman on State Highway 21, said a burnout operation on Monday is protecting the town though residents have been told to get things prepared in case an evacuation is needed.
"The burnout operation went well, so we have a black line on our side," he said.
He said he didn't know when the road to Lowman might open, noting there's still burning stumps along with rocks and trees that pose a danger by falling on the road.
"It's not safe enough to open it, in my opinion," he said. "They have to get rid of the hazards first."
About 1,800 firefighters are battling the blaze that started on July 18 and is 50 percent contained. The cause of the fire remains unknown.
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