As of the latest reports, the Valley Fire continues to escalate, prompting increased concerns for residents and emergency services alike. The fire has now expanded to over 2,500 acres and is spreading, having jumped established fire lines and threatening nearby structures.

Evacuation Orders Issued

In light of the fire’s rapid growth and shifting winds, the Boise County Sheriff’s Office has escalated evacuation measures, issuing Level 2 “SET” evacuation orders for the Robie Creek area. This change indicates that residents in the vicinity should prepare to evacuate if necessary. Neighborhoods in Council Springs, Trapper Flat, and Foxgrove are particularly at risk and should remain vigilant.

A Level 1 “READY” evacuation notice is currently in effect for other residences located off Warm Springs Road between Eckert and Highway 21. Residents in these areas are urged to stay informed and prepare for potential evacuation as conditions can change rapidly.

Fire Behavior and Weather Update

Meteorological conditions are also contributing to the fire’s behavior. Temperatures are predicted to rise into the 70s and 80s, combined with increasing southwest winds ranging from 10 to 20 mph, with gusts possibly exceeding 35 mph. A cold front is expected to move through the area around or after 7 PM, shifting wind direction to the northwest, which may further push the fire toward the north and east, potentially impacting Robie Creek.

The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for the afternoon and evening, indicating heightened fire danger due to the combination of high winds and dry conditions.

Community Impact and Safety Measures

In an effort to ensure the safety of students and faculty, East Junior High and Dallas Harris Elementary Schools have suspended classes for the day. In addition, various neighborhood resources are mobilizing to offer support, but Idaho Power reports that 500 customers are currently without electricity due to the fire situation.

Road closures are also impacting the area, with Warm Springs Road closed at Highway 21 to Eckert. It is currently unclear if Highway 21 is closed between Warm Springs and Lucky Peak, so residents are advised to avoid travel in the vicinity and follow official updates regarding road conditions.

Response Efforts Underway

Firefighting crews, including brush units, structure protection units, hotshot crews, and aerial support from both the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Boise Fire, are actively engaged in combating the blaze and protecting structures. Efforts are focused on ensuring the safety of buildings in the vicinity, particularly at East Junior High.

At this time, the cause of the fire remains under investigation, and officials are urging the public to stay tuned to local news and social media for the latest updates and safety instructions.

As developments continue to unfold, we will provide further updates as more information becomes available from witnesses and official sources. Your safety and preparedness are paramount during this challenging time.