BOISE, Idaho — The Limepoint Fire burning near Hells Canyon in unincorporated Adam's County is forcing more people out of their homes.
The Adams County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday people in Paradise Flat (south of Wildhorse Road) and Ditch Creek are under level 2 evacuation orders, "be set," meaning they need to be ready to go at a moment's notice.
People in Bear and Cuprum are still under level 3 evacuation notices, meaning they need to leave now.
The fire has scorched at least 18-thousand acres and is not contained at all. The Forest Service said it is growing rapidly due to extreme weather.
There is a red flag warning in place because of thunderstorms and high winds. Public Information Officer Susie Heisey says it is also very hot and dry.
"It's a lot of thought and science that goes into any of these decisions," she said. And so, nothing is taken lightly. When a level three evacuation is called, there's a reason for that. We just are really encouraging folks to heed those warnings."
No structures have burned. The Forest Service said firefighters are doing their best to keep homes safe, but it will be a tough couple of weeks battling the flames.
It is too early to tell whether more people will have to leave, Heisey said.
For updates about the fire, visit the Adams County Sheriff's Office.