Little Pine Fire now 25 percent contained

PRIEST RIVER — The Little Pine Fire burning seven miles north of Priest River is now 25% contained, according to a press release from the Idaho Department of Lands this morning.

Once again the estimated acreage the fire has burned decreased due to more precise mapping, IDL officials said. The fire is now estimated to have burned 174 acres, down from the 175 reported Thursday and 321 reported Wednesday.

"Crews were able to get fireline around most of the fire perimeter Thursday using heavy equipment and hand line from four firefighting crews," IDL officials said. "Groundwork was assisted by helicopter water drops throughout the day."

Fire behavior overnight was minimal and it remains within Idaho Endowment Timberland boundaries. The cause of the fire is still unknown.

"[Friday], crews will focus on completing line construction and continuing mop up operations," the IDL said. "Firefighter and public safety is the number one priority."

The fire, a mile south of Blue Lake, was first reported on Tuesday.

The increase in containment comes as the region prepares for a record-breaking heat wave that will last well into next week.