A wildfire near Redfish Lake has grown to 77 acres in size, according to the latest reports ¹. The fire, which is believed to have started on July 11, 2024, is still under investigation.
The Bench Lake Fire has prompted authorities to issue Stage 1 fire restrictions within the National Forest System lands boundaries on the Sawtooth and Cassia zones ¹. These restrictions allow campfires only in recreation sites within metal or concrete fire pits, and prohibit fires of any kind in dispersed camping areas.
An expanded emergency closure for the Bench Lake Fire has also been issued for the Redfish Lake recreation complex, including the lodge and associated buildings, roads, trails, trailheads, and campgrounds in the area ¹. Highways 75 and 21 remain open.
The fire has also led to increased smoke in the area, particularly in the afternoons after the inversion breaks ¹. Aviation resources, including water scoopers, have been successful in slowing down the fire, allowing on-the-ground firefighters to make progress securing the fireline ¹.
Leave a Reply