Wildfires Continue to Burn Across idaho and Montana, Impacting Air Quality
MISSOULA, MT – August 26, 2025 – Several wildfires are actively burning in Idaho and Montana, with containment varying significantly across the incidents.While no widespread evacuations are currently in effect, smoke from the fires is impacting air quality in numerous communities, prompting health concerns for residents.
Firefighters are battling multiple blazes, including the Island Creek Fire (5% contained), the Corral Creek Fire (0% contained), the East Fire (0% contained), the Knowles Fire (16% contained), and the Mire, East, and Windy Rock fires (all 0% contained).
efforts on the Island Creek Fire are focused on establishing firebreaks and reducing fuel loads along Forest Service Roads in challenging, rugged terrain. A control line has been established around the perimeter of the Corral Creek Fire, with crews working to reinforce areas that remain unburned. The East Fire is burning actively in tough terrain. Successful burnout operations have secured the eastern flank of the Knowles Fire, and crews continue to build both direct and indirect fire lines.
Several closures are in place due to the fires. The Selway River Corridor, from O’Hara to Race Creek, is under a closure order for the Island Creek Fire, encompassing all campgrounds and trails east of O’Hara Bridge, as well as O’Hara Road and additional roads. The Corral Creek fire has prompted an Area and Road Closure in the 9 mile Ranger District, affecting multiple National Forest System roads and trails. Closures are also in effect for Saddle Camp Road and Marten Hill Road due to the Mire Fire.
Residents in the McLaughlin, Montana area are under a pre-evacuation notice issued by the Sanders County Sheriff due to the Knowles Fire. A community meeting was held on august 20,2025,at Plains Elementary School to address resident concerns.
Authorities advise individuals to take precautions to protect themselves from wildfire smoke.Resources on how to do so are available at https://www.iqair.com/us/newsroom/how-to-protect-yourself-from-wildfire-smoke.
Affected Towns (as of August 26, 2025):
Challis, Idaho
Camas Prairie, montana
darby, Montana
Hamilton, Montana
McLaughlin, Montana
Paradise, montana
Plains, Montana
Salmon, Idaho
