Incident Publication

 

https://inciweb.nwcg.gov

Stateline Complex Fire

Community Meeting

 

July 26, 2021 at 8pm MDT

Live stream and recording via

https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNF

 

Due to Covid safety concerns, everyone is encouraged to attend virtually via the Idaho Panhandle National Forests Facebook page at the link above. You do not need a Facebook to view the video.

 Virtual Public Meeting Scheduled for Tonight at 8pm/MDT Stateline Complex Fire Daily Update July 26, 2021

Acres:  3,271 acresPersonnel: 315Cause: LightningContainment: 3%
Start Date: Wednesday, July 7, 2021Location: All Fires are SW of St. Regis, Tumbledown ⁓16.5 miles, Dolly Fire ⁓12.5 miles, Simmons Ridge Fires ⁓15.5,  and Fly 2 & 3 are ⁓20 miles.Fuels: Mixed conifer
Announcement:  A Stateline Complex virtual community meeting is scheduled for tonight (Monday, July 26, 2021) at 8pm/MDT. The meeting will serve as an opportunity to provide all communities and individuals impacted by the Stateline Complex with a situational update and a platform to ask questions.
Overview: The Stateline Complex continues to experience slow and steady fire growth. Crews will continue to monitor fire activity, and where needed, will prep and construct direct and indirect line where highest probability of success exists. Cloud cover and moisture are expected to move in later in the afternoon today signaling a transition from the current drying trend. The Stateline Complex includes the following fires: Berge Peak - contained, Broadaxe - contained, Deception – 132 acre, Dolly Creek – 659 acre, Fly 2 – 7 acre, Fly 3 – 69 acre, Fly Creek – 5 acre, Simmons Ridge – 106 acre, Simmons Ridge 2 – 293 acre, Swimming Bear – 18 acre, Tumbledown – 1,953 acre, and Wampus Creek - 2 acre.  
Fire Update: Fires within the Stateline Complex continued moderately active fire behavior. A new fire, the Simmons Leg fire recorded at approximately 26 acres, has been added to the complex and is being monitored. Crews also made progress on the northwest corner of the Dolly Creek fire and the Fly 2 & 3 fires utilizing heavy equipment, hand crews, and a type 1 helicopter. Personnel continue to monitor fire activity via air and ground operations to identify suppression options for the remaining fires within the Complex. 
Weather: Today will mark a transition from warm, dry trends to cloudy, moist conditions later this afternoon and possibly into the weekend. Winds are expected out of the SW at a sustained 10-15 mph and gusts up to 20 mph. There will be a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms Tuesday through Wednesday.
Closures: On Saturday, July 24, the Lolo National Forest issued several emergency closures due to increased fire activity on the Stateline Complex. Access to Diamond and Cliff Lakes remains closed as well as the following roads and trails:  Diamond Lake Road #7843, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the road; Diamond Lake Trail #56, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; Cliff Lake Trail #100, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; and Dry Creek Divide Trail #203, from milepost 11.94 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the trail.    Additionally, a temporary flight restriction remains in effect for the entirety of the Stateline Complex area and several other areas remain closed, including Quartz Creek as well as the following: St. Joe River Rd/Highway 50 between Bluff and Bruin Creek (last turnaround for large recreational vehicles is Eagle Creek); FSR 1216 from its junction at Highway 218 to its terminus; Gold Flat Campsite (T16N, R30W, Section 23); several trails and areas within the St. Joe Ranger District. The latest information is available at the links below. All closure information will continue to be available on the Stateline Complex Inciweb page (link below). Dry Creek Road #342 remains open for motorized use. 
Restrictions: Stage II Fire Restrictions are in effect for the Idaho Panhandle (Coeur d’Alene and Grangeville dispatch areas). 
More Information: Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7627/Idaho Panhandle National Forests Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNFLolo National Forest: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNFFire Restriction Information: http://www.idahofireinfo.com/ and https://www.mtfireinfo.org/ Area Closure Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/ipnf/alerts-notices.

 Fires within the Stateline Complex continue to show steady, moderate activity, air quality impacts are expected todayStateline Complex Fire Daily Update July 27, 2021

Acres:  3,635 acresPersonnel: 315Cause: LightningContainment: 3%Start Date: Wednesday, July 7, 2021Location: All Fires are SW of St. Regis, Tumbledown ⁓16.5 miles; Dolly Fire ⁓12.5 miles; Simmons Ridge Fires ⁓15.5;  Fly  3 ⁓20 miles.Fuels: Mixed conifer
Announcement:  The area surrounding the Stateline Complex may observe increased smoke today due to higher relative humidity (RH) and cloud cover. Expect the inversion to hold longer today, with smoke conditions lasting into the early afternoon. Areas of unhealthy Air Quality will be observed throughout the day, and may worsen slightly today and into tomorrow. Larger fires burning to our west are contributing to the high level of smoke in the forecast area. 
Overview: The Stateline Complex continued to experience moderate fire behavior on Monday, July 26, with similar behavior expected through today. Crews will continue to monitor fire activity, and where needed, prep and construct direct and indirect line where highest probability of success exists. Cloud cover and moisture are expected to persist through mid-week. The Stateline Complex includes the following fires: Berge Peak - contained, Broadaxe - contained, Deception – 147 acres; Dolly Creek – 705 acres; Fly 2 and  Fly 3 merged together and is now called the Fly 3 Fire– 92 acres; Fly Creek – 19 acres; Simmons Ridge – 144 acres; Simmons Ridge 2 – 320 acres; Simmons Leg – 43 acres; Swimming Bear – 20 acres; Tumbledown – 2,171 acres; Wampus Creek – 3.9 acres.  
Fire Update: The Stateline Complex showed active fire behavior earlier in the day on Monday, July 26, due to drier temperatures and lower RH. Group torching, short runs, and spotting began around mid-day and lasted through the evening. Spread rates continue to increase with hot, dry weather and slope alignment. The fire is burning in heavy dead/down fuels which will support continued fire spread throughout the burn period and dry conditions this morning and early afternoon will continue to allow fires to actively spread and find alignment with slopes and fuels. Additionally, based on an IR flight from the night of Sunday, July 25, the Fly 2 and Fly 3 fires have merged. These fires will now be referred to as the Fly 3
Weather: High clouds streamed across the Stateline Complex during the afternoon of Monday, July 26, leading to shading and slightly cooler temperatures and higher humidity. Cloud cover will persist as monsoon moisture will continue to push over the Complex through the remainder of the week and into the weekend resulting a slight chance for showers and isolated thunderstorms. If storms do develop, gust erratic outflow up to 30 mph will be possible along with occasional lightning. Rainfall is expected to be minimal with any activity that does develop.
Smoke: The area surrounding the Stateline Complex may observe increased smoke today due to higher RH and cloud cover. Expect the inversion to hold longer today, with smoke conditions lasting into the early afternoon.
Closures: On Saturday, July 24, the Lolo National Forest issued several emergency closures due to increased fire activity on the Stateline Complex. Access to Diamond and Cliff Lakes remains closed as well as the following roads and trails:  Diamond Lake Road #7843, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the road; Diamond Lake Trail #56, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; Cliff Lake Trail #100, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; and Dry Creek Divide Trail #203, from milepost 11.94 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the trail.    Additionally, a temporary flight restriction remains in effect for the entirety of the Stateline Complex area and several other areas remain closed, including Quartz Creek as well as the following: St. Joe River Rd/Highway 50 between Bluff and Bruin Creek (last turnaround for large recreational vehicles is Eagle Creek); FSR 1216 from its junction at Highway 218 to its terminus; Gold Flat Campsite (T16N, R30W, Section 23); several trails and areas within the St. Joe Ranger District. The latest information is available at the links below. All closure information will continue to be available on the Stateline Complex Inciweb page (link below). Dry Creek Road #342 remains open for motorized use. 
Restrictions: Stage II Fire Restrictions are in effect for the Idaho Panhandle (Coeur d’Alene and Grangeville dispatch areas). 
More Information: Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7627/Idaho Panhandle National Forests Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNFLolo National Forest: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNFFire Restriction Information: http://www.idahofireinfo.com/ and https://www.mtfireinfo.org/ Area Closure Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/ipnf/alerts-notices.

Statement from Shoshone County Sherriff's Office:

"Stateline Complex-St. Joe(Avery)/St. Regis firesThe road closures for Forest Highway 50 ( St. Joe River rd.) has been expanded from Quartz Creek down to Eagle Creek forest road 1214 to the Stateline on Golds Pass into Montana. We have had several complaints from fire personnel in the area that the barricades have been moved or vehicles are driving past barricades to access areas that are closed or take pictures of the fire. Please adhere to the barricades as directed or we risk the further closure of our forest to protect the fire fighters who are working hard to protect all of us."

For more information please visit the Shoshone County Sherriff's Office at https://www.facebook.com/Shoshone-County-Sheriffs-Office-118968448153193 
 
 

 Forest Highway 50 closure expanded as spot fire crosses St. Joe River Stateline Complex Fire Daily Update July 28, 2021 
 
 Acres:  Estimated 3,740 acres 
Personnel: 344 
Cause: Lightning 
Containment: 3% 
Start Date: Wednesday, July 7, 2021 
Location: All Fires are SW of St. Regis, Tumbledown ⁓16.5 miles; Dolly Fire ⁓12.5 miles; Simmons Ridge Fires ⁓15.5;  Fly  3 ⁓20 miles. 
Fuels: Mixed conifer 
 
Announcement:  The road closure for Forest Highway 50 (St. Joe River Road) has been expanded from Quartz Creek down to Eagle Creek forest road 1214 to the Stateline on Golds Pass into Montana.  
 
Overview: The Stateline Complex showed active fire behavior with groups of torching trees, short runs, and spotting, including a spot fire which occurred on the south side of the St. Joe River near the Tumbledown fire. South slopes and dead/down fuels continue to be the primary carrier and spread rates continue to increase with hot, dry weather and slope alignment. The remote location, steep terrain, limited access, distance between fires, and lack of suppression resources continues to challenge firefighting efforts and logistical support. The Stateline Complex includes the following fires (Please note the Stateline Complex was unable to get an infrared (IR) flight overnight due to aircraft availability. The acreage is estimated to be 3,740. Once we have updated fire acreage numbers we will post them): Berge Peak - contained, Broadaxe - contained, Deception – 147 acres; Dolly Creek – 705 acres; Fly 2 and Fly 3 merged and is now called the Fly 3 Fire – 92 acres; Fly Creek – 19 acres; Simmons Ridge – 144 acres; Simmons Ridge 2 – 320 acres; Simmons Leg – 43 acres; Swimming Bear – 20 acres; Tumbledown – 2,171 acres; Wampus Creek – 3.8 acres.   
 
Fire Update: On Tuesday, July 27, a spot fire occurred near the Tumbledown fire within the Stateline Complex, on the south side of Forest Highway 50/St. Joe River. High temperatures across the fire area will support sustained active fire behavior, especially on south facing slopes. Crews will continue to monitor fire activity and prep and construct direct and indirect line where the highest probability of success exists.  
 
Weather: Prior to cloud cover moving over the complex on Tuesday, July 27, temperatures peaked near 80 at the ridgetops with relative humidity (RH) bottoming in the mid-20s under mostly sunny skies. Expect another hot afternoon with humidity to trend 5-10% higher than yesterday's minimums. Winds are expected to be terrain-driven. Cloudy skies this morning will delay the inversion break until the early afternoon. 
 
Smoke: Larger fires burning to the west of the Stateline Complex are contributing high level smoke to the forecast area. Unhealthy air quality will be observed throughout the day in and around the Stateline Complex, but conditions may improve slightly tomorrow.  
 
Closures: On Tuesday, July 27, Shoshone County Sherriff’s Office issued a closure expansion for Forest Highway 50 (St. Joe River Road) from Quartz Creek down to Eagle Creek forest road 1214 to the Stateline on Golds Pass into Montana. Several other emergency closures remain in effect due to increased fire activity on the Stateline Complex. Access to Diamond and Cliff Lakes remains closed as well as the following roads and trails: Diamond Lake Road #7843, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the road; Diamond Lake Trail #56, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; Cliff Lake Trail #100, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; and Dry Creek Divide Trail #203, from milepost 11.94 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the trail.    
  
Additionally, a temporary flight restriction remains in place for the entirety of the Stateline Complex area and several other areas remain closed, including Quartz Creek as well as the following: FSR 1216 from its junction at Highway 218 to its terminus; Gold Flat Campsite (T16N, R30W, Section 23); several trails and areas within the St. Joe Ranger District. The latest information is available at the links below. All closure information will continue to be available on the Stateline Complex Inciweb page (link below). Dry Creek Road #342 remains open for motorized use.  
Restrictions: Stage II Fire Restrictions are in effect for the Idaho Panhandle (Coeur d’Alene and Grangeville dispatch areas).  
 
Know Before You Go 
The Stateline Complex and incidents to the west and across the region are anticipated to persist into the coming weeks, resulting in area closures, visible smoke, decreased air quality, and impacts to travel and recreational activities. Local community members and visitors to the towns and recreation areas within and around the Idaho Panhandle National Forests are encouraged to stay informed of the fire activity within and around the Stateline Complex. The following links provide on-going updates on fire activity, closures and restrictions, and maps. 
 
Stateline Complex Daily Updates on Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7627/ 
Idaho Panhandle National Forests Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNF 
Lolo National Forest: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNF Idaho Fire Map: https://idfg.idaho.gov/ifwis/maps/realtime/fire/ 
Idaho Smoke Information: http://idsmoke.blogspot.com/ 
Fire Information for Idaho Hunters & Anglers: https://idfg.idaho.gov/fire 
Fire Restriction Information: http://www.idahofireinfo.com/ and https://www.mtfireinfo.org/  
Area Closure Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/ipnf/alerts-notices. 

 Fire activity continues as critically high temperatures are expected throughout the week and into the weekend 
Stateline Complex Fire Daily Update July 29, 2021 
 
 
Acres:  4,225 acres 
Personnel: 348 
Cause: Lightning 
Containment: 3% 
Start Date: Wednesday, July 7, 2021 
Location: All Fires are SW of St. Regis, Tumbledown ⁓16.5 miles; Dolly Fire ⁓12.5 miles; Simmons Ridge Fires ⁓15.5;  Fly  3 ⁓20 miles. 
Fuels: Mixed conifer 
 
Announcement:  Hotter and dryer conditions are anticipated through today and over the course of the next 3 days, which will support longer burning periods and continued active fire behavior. As a reminder, a closure order for Forest Highway 50/St Joe River Road, was issued on Tuesday, July 27. The closure includes the following: Little Joe Creek Road (highway 282) from St. Regis to the St. Joe River Road (FH50) via Gold’s Pass/Stateline and FH 50 is closed at Gold’s Pass/Stateline; St. Joe River Road (FH 50) traveling up river from Avery is closed at the intersection of the Eagle Creek forest road (FS 1214). 
 
Overview: As the Stateline Complex continues to show active fire behavior with steady progression through all fuel types, residents and visitors are advised to anticipate a long-duration incident that could persist for several weeks or until a season-ending event such as significant rain or snow. Personnel continue to communicate area closures and restrictions via social media and various online resources (see “Know Before You Go”, below). The Stateline Complex includes the following fires: Berge Peak - contained, Broadaxe - contained, Deception – 154 acres; Dolly Creek – 735 acres Fly 3 Fire – 104 acres; Fly Creek – 31 acres; Simmons Ridge – 116 acres; Simmons Ridge 2 – 328 acres; Simmons Leg – 56 acres; Swimming Bear – 24 acres; Tumbledown – 2,673 acres; Wampus Creek – 3.9 acres.   
 
Fire Update: A drying trend is anticipated across the fire area, resulting in increasing temperatures and longer burn periods for the Stateline Complex. Crews are working steadily and continue to scout control lines for the Tumbledown and Fly fires. On the remaining fires, crews will continue to monitor fire activity. Where needed, direct and indirect line will continue to be constructed via handline and heavy equipment to assist in firefighting efforts across the Complex.  
 
Weather: Temperatures will trend much higher over the next 3 days as very strong high pressure builds over the Idaho Panhandle and the Stateline Complex. Anticipate that these will be the hottest consecutive days over the complex thus far. Much drier air will accompany these hot temperatures, which will result in critically low humidity Friday and Saturday afternoon. 
 
Smoke: An increase in smoke production is expected due to the hot and dry conditions across the Stateline Complex. Most areas will also see spikes into unhealthy air quality. Air quality will start to degrade this afternoon and into tomorrow. Larger fires burning to the west of the Complex are also contributing high level smoke to the forecast area. 
 
Closures: On Tuesday, July 27, Shoshone County Sherriff’s Office issued a closure expansion for Forest Highway 50 (St. Joe River Road) from Quartz Creek down to Eagle Creek forest road 1214 to the Stateline on Golds Pass into Montana. Several other emergency closures remain in effect due to increased fire activity on the Stateline Complex. Access to Diamond and Cliff Lakes remains closed as well as the following roads and trails: Diamond Lake Road #7843, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the road; Diamond Lake Trail #56, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; Cliff Lake Trail #100, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; and Dry Creek Divide Trail #203, from milepost 11.94 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the trail.    
  
Additionally, a temporary flight restriction remains in place for the entirety of the Stateline Complex area and several other areas remain closed, including Quartz Creek as well as the following: FSR 1216 from its junction at Highway 218 to its terminus; Gold Flat Campsite (T16N, R30W, Section 23); several trails and areas within the St. Joe Ranger District. The latest information is available at the links below. All closure information will continue to be available on the Stateline Complex Inciweb page (link below). Dry Creek Road #342 remains open for motorized use.  
Restrictions: Stage II Fire Restrictions are in effect for the Idaho Panhandle (Coeur d’Alene and Grangeville dispatch areas).  
 
Know Before You Go 
The Stateline Complex and incidents to the west and across the region are anticipated to persist into the coming weeks, resulting in area closures, visible smoke, decreased air quality, and impacts to travel and recreational activities. Local community members and visitors to the towns and recreation areas within and around the Idaho Panhandle National Forests are encouraged to stay informed of the fire activity within and around the Stateline Complex. The following links provide on-going updates on fire activity, closures and restrictions, and maps. 
 
Stateline Complex Daily Updates on Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7627/ 
Idaho Panhandle National Forests Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNF 
Lolo National Forest: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNF Idaho Fire Map: https://idfg.idaho.gov/ifwis/maps/realtime/fire/ 
Idaho Smoke Information: http://idsmoke.blogspot.com/ 
Fire Information for Idaho Hunters & Anglers: https://idfg.idaho.gov/fire 
Fire Restriction Information: http://www.idahofireinfo.com/ and https://www.mtfireinfo.org/  
Area Closure Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/ipnf/alerts-notices. 

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho (July 29, 2021) – Firefighters from multiple cooperating agencies continue to battle large wildfires ignited by lightning storms that passed over the Idaho Panhandle National Forests (IPNF) in early July. Hot, dry and breezy conditions have contributed to increased fire activity. Local fire resources have been further challenged by steep and rugged terrain, with additional new fire starts nearly every day, several of which appear to have been human caused.

Currently, the largest fires on the IPNF are the:

• Trestle Creek Complex, close to 500 acres in five fires (8 miles northeast of Hope, Idaho)
• Character Complex, burning nearly 5,800 acres in two fires: the Deceitful Fire (about 3 miles north of Kellogg, Idaho and one mile south of the North Fork Coeur d’Alene River) and the Prichard Fire (about one mile from Eagle, Idaho)
• Stateline Complex, burning over 4,200 acres in 12 fires (about 6 miles southwest of St. Regis, Montana)
• Larkins Complex, burning about 2,500 acres in 12 fires (20 miles southeast of Avery, Idaho)

In addition, several large fires are burning on lands adjacent to the IPNF in Idaho and Montana. “This level of fire activity is not normally seen in our area until August,” said Forest Supervisor Carl Petrick. “Recent record-breaking temperatures and an exceptionally dry winter and spring are causing extreme fire conditions.”Fire officials plan their fire suppression strategies based on fire behavior, weather conditions, and availability of fire suppression resources. They are prepared with a contingency plan and ready to make adjustments if there are sudden changes in the status of any of these considerations.

Forest Supervisor Petrick is urging anyone who might be planning a visit to the IPNF in the coming months to give serious consideration to their plans, and make sure they have a backup plan as well. “We normally welcome visitors to enjoy the many opportunities for camping, hiking, hunting, fishing and other activities offered in the beautiful mountains and rivers of the IPNF. Unfortunately, this year the accommodations might not be as comfortable or as safe as we would like,” cautioned Petrick. “Dry conditions have resulted in lower than usual water levels in rivers and streams, the air is smoky from active fires, and there is an increased likelihood of meeting large fire equipment on forest roads. In the mountains, cell service is not always available, which can be critically important in an emergency.”

Fires can be unpredictable and embers can start new fires as far as a mile ahead, as seen when fire crossed both the St. Joe River and the two-lane, paved St. Joe River Road on Tuesday.


Fire burning on cliffs and steep slopes disturbs soil and vegetation, causing rockslides and burning debris to impact adjacent roads without warning. In situations such as this, the Forest Supervisor may choose to close an area, road or trail to entry or restrict specific activities in an area where that entry or activity might endanger public health or safety, hamper firefighters’ efforts to suppress an ongoing fire, or result in additional fires. Stage II Fire Restrictions went into effect in northern Idaho on July 12, prohibiting fires, confining smoking to vehicles, buildings, or designated areas, and restricting use of chainsaws, blasting, welding, and explosives during certain hours (go to www.idahofireinfo.com for more information). Additional closure orders restricting travel on specific roads and trails in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest have also been issued. 

Petrick predicts a lengthy fire season. “We’re facing a fire season that has the potential to last until November, stretching fire resources and personnel to the limit, and there is no end in sight to the hot temperatures and increasingly dry conditions. We need the public’s help to avoid human-caused fires and to help our crews fighting these large fires by considering a visit to an area that isn’t as heavily impacted by fires as the IPNF. Hopefully we can welcome our visitors back next summer, when they can once again enjoy clear skies, cool water, and safer roads and trails.”

The public is reminded to always know before you go! Fire conditions change frequently, and new closure orders may go into effect on short notice if fire activity increases, weather conditions worsen, and/or suppression resources become limited. Once the decision is made to issue a closure order, the agency uses a combination of methods to inform the public as quickly as possible before the order goes into effect. Each order is posted on the Forest’s Alerts & Notices web page, and at local ranger district offices. The media is informed, signs or barriers are posted along access roads and near affected trailheads and trail junctions, and contact is made with residents, visitors, and forest workers in the area. Closure orders are in effect until they are no longer needed, and the public is notified that they have been rescinded.

Current temporary restrictions and closures for the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, including maps, are posted on the IPNF Alerts & Notices web page (https://www.fs.usdalgov/alerts/ipnf/alerts-notices); statewide information is provided on the Idaho Department of Fish and Game’s Fire Map web page (https://idfg.idaho.gov/ifwis/maps/realtime/fire/).

Unless specifically exempted, the public is urged to stay away from closed areas and respect fire restrictions. Violation of a closure order can put the safety of the public or firefighters at risk and is punishable by $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both. 

 Southwest Incident Management Team 5 will host a Community Meeting Tonight Stateline Complex Fire Daily Update July 30, 2021 
 
 
Acres:  4,225 acres 
Personnel: 377 
Cause: Lightning 
Containment: 3% 
Start Date: Wednesday, July 7, 2021 
Location: All Fires are SW of St. Regis, Tumbledown ⁓16.5 miles; Dolly Fire ⁓12.5 miles; Simmons Ridge Fires ⁓15.5;  Fly  3 ⁓20 miles. 
Fuels: Mixed conifer 
 
Announcement:  Southwest Incident Management Team 5 will be hosting a public meeting tonight at 8pm MDT via Facebook Live on the Idaho Panhandle National Forest Facebook Page. As a reminder, a closure order for Forest Highway 50/St Joe River Road, was issued on Tuesday, July 27. St. Joe River Road (FH 50) is closed between Gold’s Pass/Stateline and Eagle Creek Forest Road (FS 1214).  St. Joe River Road (FH 50) traveling up river from Avery is closed at the intersection of the Eagle Creek Forest Road (FS 1214), and is closed at Gold’s Pass/Stateline traveling Little Joe Creek Road (highway 282) from St. Regis. 
 
Overview: Tumbledown Fire within the Stateline Complex showed highly active fire behavior Thursday with all other fires showing moderate behavior. The high temperatures and low humidity are expected to increase over the next serval days. Residents and visitors are advised to anticipate a long-duration incident that could persist for several weeks or until a season-ending event such as significant rain or snow. Personnel continue to communicate area closures and restrictions via social media and various online resources (see “Know Before You Go”, below). The Stateline Complex includes the following fires: Berge Peak - contained, Broadaxe - contained, Deception – 154 acres; Dolly Creek – 735 acres Fly 3 Fire – 104 acres; Fly Creek – 31 acres; Simmons Ridge – 116 acres; Simmons Ridge 2 – 328 acres; Simmons Leg – 56 acres; Swimming Bear – 24 acres; Tumbledown – 2,673 acres; Wampus Creek – 3.9 acres.   
 
Fire Update: There was no infrared (IR) flight last night over the fire, expect acreage updates soon. The drying trend will continue across the fire area through Sunday, resulting in increasing temperatures and longer burn periods for the Stateline Complex. With increased activity, fires are beginning to burn through live fuels. Crews will remain alert to the probability of direct lines being compromised by Southeasterly winds pushing on the fires over the next few days. Where needed, direct and indirect line will continue to be constructed via handline and heavy equipment to assist in firefighting efforts across the Complex.  
 
Weather: Today was the first day of a hot and dry string of three days. Temperatures in the valleys exceeded 102F with ridgetops in the upper 80s. The hot dry trend is expected to continue for a critical fire weather day today with Saturday being the hottest day. Moisture and wetting rain chances increase Sunday night through Monday, which would improve recovery and decrease fire activity.  
 
Smoke: With the continued hot and dry conditions we're going to see more smoke and Air Quality continue to be 'Unhealthy' and 'Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups'. We may see short spikes into Very Unhealthy in communities closer to the fires. Moisture, cooler temperatures, and improved Air Quality are on the way later in the weekend and into Monday. 
 
Closures: On Tuesday, July 27, Shoshone County Sherriff’s Office issued a closure expansion for Forest Highway 50 (St. Joe River Road) from Quartz Creek down to Eagle Creek forest road 1214 to the Stateline on Golds Pass into Montana. Several other emergency closures remain in effect due to increased fire activity on the Stateline Complex. Access to Diamond and Cliff Lakes remains closed as well as the following roads and trails: Diamond Lake Road #7843, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the road; Diamond Lake Trail #56, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; Cliff Lake Trail #100, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; and Dry Creek Divide Trail #203, from milepost 11.94 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the trail.    
  
Additionally, a temporary flight restriction remains in place for the entirety of the Stateline Complex area and several other areas remain closed, including Quartz Creek as well as the following: FSR 1216 from its junction at Highway 218 to its terminus; Gold Flat Campsite (T16N, R30W, Section 23); several trails and areas within the St. Joe Ranger District. The latest information is available at the links below. All closure information will continue to be available on the Stateline Complex Inciweb page (link below). Dry Creek Road #342 remains open for motorized use.  
Restrictions: Stage II Fire Restrictions are in effect for the Idaho Panhandle (Coeur d’Alene and Grangeville dispatch areas).  
 
Know Before You Go 
The Stateline Complex and incidents to the west and across the region are anticipated to persist into the coming weeks, resulting in area closures, visible smoke, decreased air quality, and impacts to travel and recreational activities. Local community members and visitors to the towns and recreation areas within and around the Idaho Panhandle National Forests are encouraged to stay informed of the fire activity within and around the Stateline Complex. The following links provide on-going updates on fire activity, closures and restrictions, and maps. 
 
Stateline Complex Daily Updates on Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7627/ 
Idaho Panhandle National Forests Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNF 
Lolo National Forest: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNF Idaho Fire Map: https://idfg.idaho.gov/ifwis/maps/realtime/fire/ 
Idaho Smoke Information: http://idsmoke.blogspot.com/ 
Fire Information for Idaho Hunters & Anglers: https://idfg.idaho.gov/fire 
Fire Restriction Information: http://www.idahofireinfo.com/ and https://www.mtfireinfo.org/  
Area Closure Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/ipnf/alerts-notices. 

 Crews Continue to Prepare for Long-Duration IncidentStateline Complex Fire Daily Update July 31, 2021

Acres:  6,178 acresPersonnel: 384Cause: LightningContainment: 0%Start Date: Wednesday, July 7, 2021Location: All Fires are SW of St. Regis, Tumbledown ⁓16.5 miles; Dolly Fire ⁓12.5 miles; Simmons Ridge Fires ⁓15.5;  Fly  3 ⁓20 miles.Fuels: Mixed conifer
Announcement:  As a reminder, a closure order for Forest Highway 50/St Joe River Road, was issued on Tuesday, July 27. St. Joe River Road (FH 50) is closed between Gold’s Pass/Stateline and Eagle Creek Forest Road (FS 1214).  St. Joe River Road (FH 50) traveling up river from Avery is closed at the intersection of the Eagle Creek Forest Road (FS 1214), and is closed at Gold’s Pass/Stateline traveling Little Joe Creek Road (highway 282) from St. Regis.
Overview: Tumbledown Fire continued to show active fire behavior yesterday despite being heavily shaded by smoke. All other fires continue to show moderate behavior. Residents and visitors are advised to anticipate a long-duration incident that could persist for several weeks or until a season-ending event such as significant rain or snow. Personnel continue to communicate area closures and restrictions via social media and various online resources (see “Know Before You Go”, below). The Stateline Complex includes the following fires: Berge Peak - contained, Broadaxe - contained, Deception – 203 acres; Dolly Creek – 825 acres Fly 3 Fire – 137 acres; Fly Creek – 52 acres; Simmons Ridge – 138 acres; Simmons Ridge 2 – 384 acres; Simmons Leg – 91 acres; Swimming Bear – 36 acres; Tumbledown – 4,306 acres; Wampus Creek – 6.2 acres.  
Fire Update: Today will be the hottest and final of the 3-day drying trend before some cloud cover and moisture move in late Saturday afternoon. Fires are actively growing, and some spotting is being observed on Tumbledown and Fly 3 fires. Crews will continue to be alert to rapid changes in fire behavior as well as the probability of direct and indirect lines being compromised by variable and outflow winds pushing on the fires. Crews continue structure protection and prepping as well as constructing indirect and direct line utilizing handline and heavy equipment to assist in firefighting efforts across the Complex as needed. 
Weather: Temperatures yesterday climbed into the upper 80s and lower 90s along ridges and are expected to increase today with the projected sunny conditions. Cloud cover and moisture will move in Saturday night through Monday, which would improve recovery and help decrease fire activity. Greatest chances for showers will be Sunday morning, Sunday night, and Monday. 
Smoke: The continued hot and dry conditions will bring more smoke and poor Air Quality into most forecast areas today. Air Quality will likely continue to be 'Unhealthy' and 'Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups'. We may see short spikes into 'Very Unhealthy' in communities closer to the fires. With the moisture and cooler temperatures moving in tomorrow we should start to see the Air Quality gradually improve.
Closures: On Tuesday, July 27, Shoshone County Sherriff’s Office issued a closure expansion for Forest Highway 50 (St. Joe River Road) from Quartz Creek down to Eagle Creek forest road 1214 to the Stateline on Golds Pass into Montana. Several other emergency closures remain in effect due to increased fire activity on the Stateline Complex. Access to Diamond and Cliff Lakes remains closed as well as the following roads and trails: Diamond Lake Road #7843, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the road; Diamond Lake Trail #56, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; Cliff Lake Trail #100, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; and Dry Creek Divide Trail #203, from milepost 11.94 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the trail.    Additionally, a temporary flight restriction remains in place for the entirety of the Stateline Complex area and several other areas remain closed, including Quartz Creek as well as the following: FSR 1216 from its junction at Highway 218 to its terminus; Gold Flat Campsite (T16N, R30W, Section 23); several trails and areas within the St. Joe Ranger District. The latest information is available at the links below. All closure information will continue to be available on the Stateline Complex Inciweb page (link below). Dry Creek Road #342 remains open for motorized use. Restrictions: Stage II Fire Restrictions are in effect for the Idaho Panhandle (Coeur d’Alene and Grangeville dispatch areas). 
Know Before You GoThe Stateline Complex and incidents to the west and across the region are anticipated to persist into the coming weeks, resulting in area closures, visible smoke, decreased air quality, and impacts to travel and recreational activities. Local community members and visitors to the towns and recreation areas within and around the Idaho Panhandle National Forests are encouraged to stay informed of the fire activity within and around the Stateline Complex. The following links provide on-going updates on fire activity, closures and restrictions, and maps.
Stateline Complex Daily Updates on Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7627/Idaho Panhandle National Forests Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNFLolo National Forest: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNFIdaho Fire Map: https://idfg.idaho.gov/ifwis/maps/realtime/fire/Idaho Smoke Information: http://idsmoke.blogspot.com/Fire Information for Idaho Hunters & Anglers: https://idfg.idaho.gov/fireFire Restriction Information: http://www.idahofireinfo.com/ and https://www.mtfireinfo.org/ Area Closure Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/ipnf/alerts-notices.

Fires grow overnight as weather conditions shift to wetter and cooler  
Stateline Complex Fire Daily Update August 1, 2021 
 
 
Acres:  5,716 acres 
Personnel: 369 
Cause: Lightning 
Containment: 0% 
Start Date: Wednesday, July 7, 2021 
Location: All Fires are SW of St. Regis, Tumbledown ⁓16.5 miles; Dolly Fire ⁓12.5 miles; Simmons Ridge Fires ⁓15.5;  Fly  3 ⁓20 miles. 
Fuels: Mixed conifer 
 
Announcement:  A spot fire was observed west of the Tumbledown Fire on Saturday afternoon and fires remained very active overnight. Highway 50 between the east fork of Gold Creek and Eagle Creek remains temporarily closed due to increased fire activity. Additionally, today is the final operational shift for the Southwest Area Incident Management Team 5. The team will transfer command of the Stateline Complex incident to the Northern Rockies Incident Management Team 2 on August 2, 2021 at 0600/MT. Information will continue to be available on the Stateline Complex Inciweb page (link below).  
 
Overview: The Stateline Complex showed active fire behavior on Saturday, July 31, with a spot fire observed on the west side of Tumbledown Fire. All other fires continued to show moderate to increasing fire behavior throughout the day and overnight. Today, crews will continue to monitor fire activity and complete structure protection efforts on threatened U.S. Forest Service infrastructure. There was no infrared (IR) flight last night over the fire, expect acreage updates from the incoming team. As of yesterday, Saturday July 31, the Stateline Complex includes the following fires: Berge Peak - contained, Broadaxe - contained, Deception – 203 acres; Dolly Creek – 825 acres Fly 3 Fire – 137 acres; Fly Creek – 52 acres; Simmons Ridge – 138 acres; Simmons Ridge 2 – 384 acres; Simmons Leg – 91 acres; Swimming Bear – 36 acres; Tumbledown – 3,844 acres; Wampus Creek – 6.2 acres.   
 
Fire Update: Fire behavior for all fires within the Stateline Complex were active overnight and will continue to be active until the afternoon today, as fire is anticipated to continue spreading in heavy dead and down fuels as well as north slopes and live fuels. Later in the day, fire behavior will decrease as moisture arrives. Over the next 24 hours, cloudy conditions and forecasted precipitation will assist in slowing the drying of fuels and moderating fire behavior.  
 
Weather: Saturday was a critical fire weather day across the Stateline Complex, with temperatures ~15 degrees above normal, relative humidity (RH) values in the teens and ridge top winds gusting over 20 mph. The Complex will experience much cooler and wetter conditions on Sunday with showers and scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon. Gusty outflow winds and lightning are anticipated, with a 70% chance of wetting rains. Communities are encouraged to stay apprised of shifting weather and flash flood watches/warnings. 
 
Smoke: Today communities around Superior, St Regis and Plains will likely see 'Moderate' to 'Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups'. In Thompson Falls, Avery and Calder air quality is likely to decline into 'Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups' to 'Unhealthy' levels due to the large fire activity and growth yesterday. Polson should remain 'Moderate'. With tomorrow’s cooler temperatures and expected rain, a slight improvement in air quality is expected for Monday. 
 
Closures: On Tuesday, July 27, Shoshone County Sherriff’s Office issued a closure expansion for Forest Highway 50 (St. Joe River Road) from Quartz Creek down to Eagle Creek forest road 1214 to the Stateline on Golds Pass into Montana. Several other emergency closures remain in effect due to increased fire activity on the Stateline Complex. Access to Diamond and Cliff Lakes remains closed as well as the following roads and trails: Diamond Lake Road #7843, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the road; Diamond Lake Trail #56, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; Cliff Lake Trail #100, from milepost 0.00 at junction with Diamond Lake Road #7843 to the end of the trail; and Dry Creek Divide Trail #203, from milepost 11.94 at junction with Dry Creek Road #342 to the end of the trail.    
  
Additionally, a temporary flight restriction remains in place for the entirety of the Stateline Complex area and several other areas remain closed, including Quartz Creek as well as the following: FSR 1216 from its junction at Highway 218 to its terminus; Gold Flat Campsite (T16N, R30W, Section 23); several trails and areas within the St. Joe Ranger District. The latest information is available at the links below. All closure information will continue to be available on the Stateline Complex Inciweb page (link below). Dry Creek Road #342 remains open for motorized use.  
Restrictions: Stage II Fire Restrictions are in effect for the Idaho Panhandle (Coeur d’Alene and Grangeville dispatch areas).  
 
Know Before You Go 
The Stateline Complex and incidents to the west and across the region are anticipated to persist into the coming weeks, resulting in area closures, visible smoke, decreased air quality, and impacts to travel and recreational activities. Local community members and visitors to the towns and recreation areas within and around the Idaho Panhandle National Forests are encouraged to stay informed of the fire activity within and around the Stateline Complex. The following links provide on-going updates on fire activity, closures and restrictions, and maps. 
 
Stateline Complex Daily Updates on Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7627/ 
Idaho Panhandle National Forests Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNF 
Lolo National Forest: https://www.facebook.com/USFSIPNF Idaho Fire Map: https://idfg.idaho.gov/ifwis/maps/realtime/fire/ 
Idaho Smoke Information: http://idsmoke.blogspot.com/ 
Fire Information for Idaho Hunters & Anglers: https://idfg.idaho.gov/fire 
Fire Restriction Information: http://www.idahofireinfo.com/ and https://www.mtfireinfo.org/  
Area Closure Information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/ipnf/alerts-notices.