Officials said several first responders were injured in the fire and residents may also have been injured.
MOUNTAIN HOME, ID — Multiple structure fires and fast-moving brush fire idaho Tuesday night, prompting multiple evacuations and a massive multi-agency response.
An Idaho State Police spokesman said the fire south of Mountain Home has been stopped and is under control. As of 11 p.m. Mountain Time, the fire had not yet been named or its area mapped.
ISP says Several law enforcement officers were injured while responding, but the extent of their injuries is unknown. Police said residents may have been injured but could not confirm details at the time.
Idaho State Police said emergency crews were dispatched to the fire near the intersection of Smith and Hamilton roads in Elmore County shortly before 7 p.m.
The Comprehensive Public Alert and Warning System issued an alert for the area between Highway 51 and Old U.S. Highway 30 at 9:02 p.m., warning residents to be alert and prepare to evacuate.
An Idaho State Police spokesman confirmed multiple evacuations occurred.
ISP said the scene remained active as of Tuesday evening as crews continued to search affected areas and assess damage to see when residents could return home.
The alert sent out at 11:10 p.m. said, “All residents are allowed to return to their homes except those who live on High Desert Dr. If you live in High Desert and need assistance, please call 208-587-2100 option 1.”
The Elmore County Sheriff’s Office is in charge of the response, with multiple agencies assisting with evacuations and traffic management.
Emergency officials issued guidance for residents affected by the fire. The injured were taken to the Navy Building near the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office, 2255 E. Eighth North, for treatment. Military members and their families should go to Mountain Home Airport, 2614 Air Force Base Road, from where they will be flown to the base. Residents displaced by the fire are advised to go to the Elks Lodge at 325 S. Third West to receive assistance from the American Red Cross.
The fire is close to city limits and is being attended to by local fire departments. First responders requested assistance from the Bureau of Land Management, including an overhead engine and two fire trucks.
Authorities are asking the public to avoid the area so emergency crews can work safely and to keep an eye out for emergency vehicles.
