Authorities are searching for whoever left an unextinguished campfire, causing the largest wildfire in Idaho this year.
Hundreds of firefighters have responded to the blaze in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, and three have died.
The Moose Fire started along the Salmon River bank near Little Moose Creek in east-central Idaho on July 17 -- and has been burning ever since.
Officials said Wednesday that the 200-square-mile fire is only about half contained. The blaze is described as "smoldering and creeping."
The U.S. Forest Service said the fire began in a camping area and then spread from grass and shrubs to forests at higher elevations, forcing the evacuations of residents near the town of Salmon. More than 130,000 acres have been burned so far.
"The incident took place over a busy weekend on the river corridor," the Forest Service said in a statement. "Investigators believe the fire may have been left smoldering in a rock fire ring from the previous night."
Officials say the fire happened during a period of high temperatures, low humidity, and winds estimated around 30 miles per hour.
The agency is asking for the public's help identifying anyone present at the camping area from the afternoon of July 16 to the morning of July 17.
The camping area is located across from the Moose Creek drainage, between Salmon River Road and the Main Salmon River, approximately 5.6 miles west of North Fork, Idaho.
Officials estimate that the fire will be fully contained by October, 31. About 500 firefighters and support personnel are involved in the effort.
Related
Related
