Winds fuel Little Pine Fire's growth
Initially reported at about 12 acres about 3 p.m. Tuesday, winds have quickly pushed the Little Pine Fire to 150 acres.
(Photo courtesy MARY MALONE)
PRIEST RIVER — Reported in endowment timberland north of Priest River early Tuesday afternoon, the Little Pine Fire quickly grew from about a dozen acres to about 150, Idaho Department of Lands officials said.
The fire is located about 7 miles north of Priest River in Pine Creek and about 1 mile south of Blue Lake in Bonner County. Reported at 3 p.m., the fire is being driven by high winds which is causing spot fires and causing the fire to quickly grow, IDL officials said in a press release.
No structures are threatened at this time, and no evacuations or road closures are in place. Smoke from the fire can be seen from Priest River, Sandpoint, and north of Highway 2, officials said.
IDL Fire and U.S. Forest Service resources are responding and fire crews are already at the scene. Dozers and excavators are on site and are working to establish fire lines, officials said.
In addition, aircraft pilots are collecting water from the Pend Oreille River to drop over the fire.
Information: www.idl.idaho.gov