Wildfire, structure fire uproot Valley residents
By Eric Valentine
Under a smoke-filled Valley sky that, as of Tuesday morning, hit an ‘unhealthy’ 187 on the air quality index, let’s start with some good news about the blazes in and around Blaine County.
A two-fire onslaught—one a wildfire, the other a structure fire—has not taken any human lives. And the wildfire part of that onslaught has thus far only spurred home evacuations, not housing devastation. Meanwhile, the folks who reside, recreate, and do business across the Valley seem to be pulling together to help those in
harm’s way. Already, accommodations for those displaced, clothing and essential items, and financial support are coming together via local organizations (see this article’s sidebar The Help List).
And then there’s the news that isn’t bad—yet, and hopefully never.
“This is deeply concerning,” said North Valley resident Dave Concannon on Facebook, who as a fellow of The Explorers Club is no stranger to challenge or adventure. “Since my post two days ago, the Ross Fork Fire has nearly quadrupled in size and is only 4% contained. Plus, the winds have shifted and are now out of the northwest, which means the smoke and fire have moved this way. I have been chained to my desk all weekend, working 55 hours since Friday, but preparing for this has now become my top priority. If my clients who are reading this are eager to get back to work after their weekend or summer holidays, please understand if I am not quick to return your calls.”
Ross Fork Fire
On Monday, a Type 2 Incident Management Team arrived in the Sawtooth Valley, bringing more personnel and equipment to fight the now 14,000-acre blaze. Blaine County Sheriff’s Office had already ordered a mandatory evacuation over the weekend for residents and visitors in the area spanning Smiley Creek, Sawtooth City, Beaver Creek and Alturas Lake.
For families like Concannon’s, the situation is more of a mandatory state of limbo.
“We may start ferrying valuables and vehicles down to Hailey today,” Concannon said around 8 a.m. Tuesday.
By 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, the Sheriff’s Office posted this:
“At this time Highway 75 is open to the public, however, it may close at any time. If fire activity increases with higher temperatures and wind it may be closed for the safety of the public and fire personnel.”
In addition to the Sheriff’s Facebook page, the following Facebook pages also serve as reliable and current information:
U.S. Forest Service-Sawtooth National Forest
Idaho Transportation Department (ITD)
Limelight Structure Fire
On Saturday, Sept. 3, at approximately 7:30 p.m., a structure fire broke out at the Limelight Condominiums at 2107 Warm Springs Road.
Firefighters began the initial search for people inside the building before attacking the fire. There were no human casualties. It is not yet confirmed whether pets were lost in the blaze. The cause of the blaze is under investigation. A state fire marshal inspector will be on scene to investigate and make the final determination.
The city is currently working on connecting those who have lost their homes with housing offered by generous members of the community. Short- and long-term accommodations are being sourced by the city’s housing strategist, Carissa Connelly.
“Our hearts go out to those who have lost their homes and some who may have lost their pets,” said Mayor Neil Bradshaw. “This community is coming together once again and I thank them for the support we have received so far, whether it be from providing temporary shelter, clothing or financial assistance.”
Ketchum Fire Department received the call at 7:38 p.m. and was on-scene within 4 minutes. Sun Valley, Wood River, and Hailey fire departments also responded to the call. The crews fought the fire throughout the night, containing it by 4 a.m. Crews were still on scene extinguishing hotspots this morning.
“I am thankful to all the crews that responded valley-wide,” said Fire Chief Bill McLaughlin. “This type of collaboration is critical when fighting a fire of this magnitude.”
Representatives from the Idaho Falls American Red Cross arrived Sunday at the Ketchum Fire Station, 107 Saddle Road. They will provide packages of essential items, immediate financial assistance and assist in refilling lost prescriptions, eyewear, etc. If you can assist with housing, donations of clothing and essential items, or would like to make a financial contribution, please see the How To Help list in the sidebar.
Blaine County Charitable Fund is working in conjunction with the City of Ketchum to assist the households affected by the fire that took place at the Limelight condo building A on Sept. 3, 2022. It appears the building is a total loss, according to city officials. The city is working with residents and the short-term rental company Vacasa to find temporary housing for the people who called the building home.
THE HELP LIST
Short or long-term accommodations:
City of Ketchum Housing Strategist Carissa Connelly
cconnelly@ketchumidaho.org or 718-200-6055
Clothing and essential item donations:
The Gold Mine Thrift Store
331 Walnut Ave. N.
208-726-3465
Financial donations:
Blaine County Charitable Fund
www.blainecf.org
American Red Cross service post:
Ketchum Fire Station
107 Saddle Road