Texas Ridge Fire at 20% containment, minimal fire activity expected

The Texas Ridge Fire east of Kendrick is now 20% contained as crews have made lines around the fire. 

The fire was reported Sunday at 1,575 acres, which is the same that was reported Saturday. Crews secured a control line around the fire Saturday and then went into the fire with water from engines, water bags with hand pumps and installing hoses and sprinkler systems. Helicopters dropped buckets to cool down areas with brushy fuels to allow firefighters to safely mop up the area, according to a news release from the Idaho Department of Lands. 

Fire activity is expected to remain minimal with some creeping fire and smoldering, but little to no open flames. Firefighters will continue to look for and extinguish remaining heat and smoke within 100 feet of the fire perimeter, according to the news release. 

The extreme continues to affect firefighting efforts and crews will look for and address heat areas during the cooler part of the day and monitor fire activity during the hotter parts of the day. Hot weather will continue into the week with today and Monday forecasted to be hottest and driest conditions. Winds will remain light and are shifting from west to east in the afternoon, according to the news release. 

The Idaho Department of Lands also asked in the news release that people returning to their properties should be aware that firefighters are continuing to work and drive in the area, according to the news release.