Single Publication

Beauty Creek Fire

Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Coeur d’Alene River Ranger District                                         

Fire Information 208-557-8813

https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/idipf-beauty-creek-fire

July 25, 2023

Location:  Approximately 3 miles up Beauty Creek Rd, off the northeast tip of Coeur d’Alene Lake

Start Date: 7/21/2023       Cause: Under Investigation      Size: 13 acres       Containment: 100%  

Total Personnel: 40    Engines: 3       Hand Crews: 1  

This will be the final update on the Beauty Creek Fire. The Fire was reported by the public on the evening of 7/21/23. It is approximately 13 acres and burned in heavy timber. Yesterday, the fireline was tested vigorously by Red Flag Warning level wind speeds and held without issue. Due to the cooler temperatures and tested fireline, fire officials are confident in calling the fire 100 percent contained at this time, meaning there is little to no risk of fire activity increasing or escaping the fireline. Firefighters are starting mop-up, working from the perimeter towards the interior. Mop-up includes all activities that extinguish and/or remove burning fuels near the control lines, greatly reducing further risk of spread and minimizing residual smoke. Further aviation resources are not likely needed.

An emergency closure order was issues yesterday afternoon, prohibiting foot, mechanized, motorized and stock travel on FSR 453. The closure will be revisited and possibly rescinded later in the week as residual hazards are mitigated.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by Federal Law Enforcement.

WEATHER AND FIRE BEHAVIOR

Today's high temperature will be 76 degrees, with a minimum humidity of 23 percent. Winds will start out of the southwest 10 to 16 mph decreasing to 6 to 10 mph in the afternoon.

CLOSURES AND SPECIAL MESSAGES

The Idaho Panhandle National Forests issued an emergency closure (Closure Order # 01-04-03-23-001) effective July 24, 2023. This Order is for public and firefighter safety due to heavy fire traffic in the area impacted on the Coeur d’Alene River RD, and prohibits all methods of travel (foot, mechanized, motorized and stock) on FSR 453 from the junction of FSR 453 and FSR 438 to the west to the junction of FSR 453 and FSR 439.
The closure will be revisited and possibly rescinded later in the week as residual hazards are mitigated.

Further aviation support is not likely needed; however, boaters of all kinds should practice caution while recreating in the Beauty Bay area. Failure to clear out when fire aircraft are working can cause delays that waste valuable time and put boots on the ground at additional risk.