Moose Fire along Salmon River spreads to 56,049 acres; believed to be human-caused

BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) The Moose Fire along the Salmon River has grown to more than 56,000 acres. Fire officials say the fire is 23 percent contained. The Moose Fire began on July 17 near the confluence of Moose Creek and the Salmon River. Officials say they believe the fire is human-caused. The specific events

The Moose Fire along the Salmon River has grown to more than 56,000 acres.

Fire officials say the fire is 23 percent contained.

The Moose Fire began on July 17 near the confluence of Moose Creek and the Salmon River. Officials say they believe the fire is human-caused. The specific events leading up to the fire are still under investigation.

Dry, windy conditions allowed the fire to spread a further 8,000 acres.

The region continues in extreme fire danger as hot and dry conditions continued over the fire Saturday with light winds.

Due to the high amount of trees on the west side of the fire, the fire front is advancing up to a mile a day. The east side of the fire continues to move south and crossed into Comet Gulch.

Fire officials are seeing hotter temperatures and lower relative humidity Sunday. This combined with winds may significantly grow the fire.

Crews are continuing to protect structures in the Pine Creek area along Highway 93 and in the Panther Creek area.

Firefighters are also continuing in holding lines along Williams Creek Road.

Currently, 973 personnel are assigned to the fire as well as 23 hand crews, 61 engines, and multiple helicopters.

The Pilot Car System on Salmon River Road is scheduled to run as normal, but with potential for temporary delays. The pilot car system is for residents, river permit holders, and river shuttles. The road is closed to all other traffic.

As an alternate route, drivers can take Williams Creed Rd (021) to Deep Creek Rd (101), then north on Panther Creek Rd (055).

For information on evacuations click HERE. For information on closures and restrictions click HERE.

RELATED: Moose Fire along Salmon River spreads to 32,330 acres

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