Moose Fire grows to 82,974 acres

MISSOULA, Mont. — The Moose Fire burning 17 miles north of Salmon, Idaho has grown to82,974 acres, according to overnight infrared mapping.

That's an increase of2,878 acres from Tuesday.

The daily flight log noted the following: "The fire grew by 2,878 acres. The largest heat perimeter expansions were on the western and southwestern flanks of the fire. There was intense and scattered heat predominantly in the southern half of the fire as well as interior isolated heat."

The Salmon-Challis National Forest is warning of increased fire activity creating new hazards, like big rocks, logs and other debris crashing down along the main Salmon River.

They have a high probability of closing part of the Salmon River Road right now.

Also, forest officials warn many more emergency response vehicles are in the area as crews may light fires along main roads to slow the huge fire.

There are more than 1,000 personnel working the fire. It was 34% contained as of Tuesday.

Investigators say the fire is human-caused.

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