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IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (AP) — A fast-moving rangeland wildfire in eastern Idaho expanded to nearly 70 square miles Wednesday, forcing evacuations, threatening a windfarm and burning habitat needed by sage grouse.
The Bonneville County Sheriff's Office says evacuations are in place with up to 70 buildings along U.S. Highway 26 threatened.
Officials say the human-caused fire reported Sunday about 7 miles east of Idaho Falls is making wind-driven runs to the north and east.
Officials say high winds are again predicted Wednesday along with low humidity.
In central Idaho, a 160-square-mile wildfire in a remote, mountainous area continues to defy containment and burn through timbered slopes that are difficult for firefighters to reach.
The fire that started July 18 is 40 percent contained but expected to burn through September when rain or snow arrives.
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