What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of August 28, 2024, the Wapiti Fire in Idaho is threatening homes and communities in Idaho, including Stanley Basin, Grandjean, and Stanley Lake (1). The fire has been active since July 24, 2024, and has recently burned 70,200 acres due to challenging, gusty weather conditions

The fire is burning across several protected lands, including Boise National Forest, Sawtooth National Forest, Salmon-Challis National Forest, and Sawtooth Wilderness.

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

The fire is directly affecting Lower Stanley and Stanley, with evacuation orders in place. Areas along Highway 21, including Lowman, are also under threat, particularly from both the Wapiti Fire and the nearby Middle Fork Complex Fire. Approximately 250 homes are currently at risk, and eight homes have been lost to the fire to date. Five other structures have also burned.

Smoke from Idaho’s wildfires is impacting regional air quality. At 10 AM Mountain Time, air quality in Sawtooth City was hazardous. Further south, Twin Falls’ air quality was unhealthy for sensitive groups.

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

The Wapiti Fire remains uncontained as of August 28, and the fire has burned 70,200 acres (2). A firefighting force of 620 personnel are establishing defensible lines to protect communities at risk.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Lower Stanley has been evacuated as a precaution due to the fire’s rapid spread (3). The Red Cross has relocated its shelter from the Stanley Community Hall to the Challis LDS Church to accommodate those displaced by the fire. Additionally, Highway 21 remains closed from Stanley to Sour Dough Lodge for safety reasons, and road closures are subject to change as the fire evolves.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

• Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
• Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
• Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
• Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
• Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.