Lightning-caused grain fire north of Idaho Falls fully contained
UPDATE:
BONNEVILLE COUNTY, Idaho (KIFI) — The vegetation fire that was burning north of Idaho Falls is now fully contained.
The fire broke out just before 9 last night near 129th north, burning about 100 acres of standing grain.
Idaho Falls Fire Department says the blaze was caused by lightning from last night’s storm, and left an estimated 100-thousand dollars in crop damage.
Crews from Idaho Falls, Ucon, and the Central Fire District worked together to stop the fire. Firefighters are reminding everyone that a single lightning strike can quickly ignite dry vegetation. Report any smoke or fire to 911 right away.
“In addition to the coordinated response from firefighters, the Idaho Falls Fire Department would like to acknowledge the support of local farmers who assisted from a safe distance by using tractors to create fire breaks that helped protect nearby structures and land,” said City Public Information Officer Hayli Egbert in an email to the press. “The crop loss is significant and represents a difficult setback for those who rely on agriculture for their livelihood. Our thoughts are with the impacted farmers as they work through the aftermath of this incident. Thanks to the combined efforts of fire crews and support from community members, the fire was contained without further property loss or injury.”
ORIGINAL:
BONNEVILLE COUNTY, Idaho (KIFI) – A fast-moving field fire is burning Thursday night between Ucon and Rigby along County Line Road.
Crews are on scene battling the fire, which Watch Duty says has threatened nearby structures.
Local News 8 spoke with a person who witnessed the fire start. They said they saw lightning strike a field shortly before flames began spreading.
Local News 8 will continue updating this story as more information becomes available.
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