Pioneer Fire Grows To 38,000 Acres

Wind, heat, and low humidity have fueled the Pioneer Fire near Idaho City adding another 10,000 acres scorched bringing us to a total of over 38,000 acres.

Drones have been interfering with aircraft operations.  Firefighters are asking the public to please do not use drones in this area and stay away from this area if possible while they take on the daunting task of putting this thing out.

We have about 1,300 firefighters now on the job.  It'll take every one of them to get this under control because it's rapidly growing and still only 30% contained.

The fire is moving to the east and north with embers igniting new fires up to a third of a mile away.  It's also making a run to the south/southeast into the Big Owl Creek area.  Firefighters are strengthening and holding containment lines today as they evaluate the current situation.

State Highway 21 is closed from 6 miles north of Idaho City to south of Lowman.