IDAHO CITY - Lightning sparked nine new fires in the Boise National Forest this weekend, while firefighters continue battling a massive wildfire that has prompted evacuations in Lowman, officials said.
A storm moved through the area Saturday night bringing with it lightning, but very little rain.
Fire managers say most of the new fires are under two acres in size, and only about half are staffed with fire personnel.
Four of the fires are in the Boiling Springs area, about 15 miles north of Garden Valley in Valley County.
The largest of the new starts - the Rough Fire - has burned about 50 acres 14 miles northeast of Lowman. Officials say a 20-person hand crew hiked to the fire Sunday. No structures are threatened.
Meanwhile, hundreds of firefighters continue trying to get a handle on the Pioneer Fire, which grew to nearly 94 square miles on Sunday. Managers say afternoon winds pushed the fire north-northeast of Lowman. A level 2 evacuation has been issued for the town. Residents are advised to be ready to leave, and are encouraged to head out if able and willing.
Firefighters are in the area and conducting burn out operations around homes for protection. A public meeting will be held in Lowman at 7 p.m. Sunday to answer homeowners' questions.
