Firefighters battling the Texas Fire burning near Kendrick took advantage of overcast skies and cooler temperatures yesterday (Wed).
Crews and heavy equipment constructed a combination of direct and indirect fire line around the perimeter of the Texas Fire, including the spot east of the main fire, burning near Kendrick. Fire line construction has been completed with dozers, chainsaws, and handline.
Early in the day, aviation resources aided fire suppression efforts near the intersection of Texas Ridge Road and Cedar Ridge Road as well as the northern-end of the fire. Later in the day, aviation focus shifted to the eastern spot. Engines patrolled the fire area overnight.
Today (Thur), firefighters will reinforce fire line by installing hose lays on the edge of the fire. Crews and heavy equipment will continue to reinforce constructed fire line by mitigating snags and rolling material and working directly along the fire’s edge where possible. Additional crews and equipment are expected to arrive today.
Weather forecast shows increased sun exposure to the fire today, with temperatures in the low 100s and relative humidity in the low teens. Winds will be light and mostly terrain driven. With increased hot and dry weather conditions, the likelihood for fire progression upslope and single to group tree torching is likely. The fire has grown to an estimated 1,543 acres.
Evacuation Statuses:
As per the Latah County Sheriff’s Department, the following are current evacuation status:
- Level 3 Evacuations:
- Cedar Ridge from Highway 3 to Linden Rd.
- Linden Rd. to S Park Rd.
- Texas Ridge Rd and East Rd. to Sundstrom Rd.
- Level 2 Evacuations:
- Texas Ridge and Sundstrom Rd to Highway 3
- Cedar Ridge Rd. at Linden Rd. to Three Bear Rd.
- All houses west of 1210 Cedar Ridge Rd.
- Level 1 Evacuation:
- Any houses 2 miles outside of the listed Level 2 evacuation locations.
As per the Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Department, the following areas should be prepared for evacuations:
- Residents who live on and to the north of Southwick Road should be prepared in case of a mandatory evacuation. This area includes Brothers Ln, Koepp Rd, North Rd, Wendt Rd, and Lohman Rd.
Current Closure Orders:
- P1 and Texas Ridge remain closed at this time.
- For those with livestock, Lewiston Roundup is offering space for those impacted by the fire.
