More residents in southern Bonner County have been ordered to evacuate due to the growing Sunset Fire northeast of Athol.

In the past 24 hours, the Sunset Fire has doubled in size — now estimated at 1,600 acres — consumed three structures and forced the evacuation of numerous residents, with more announced Thursday evening.

“Values at risk continue to be threatened, and fire crews are assessing structures and implementing point protection where possible,” said Jennifer Russell, fire information officer for the North Idaho Type 3 Incident Management Team. The team, led by Mike McManus, assumed command of the fire Thursday afternoon.

Idaho Department of Lands officials said the fire is moving northeast and exhibiting extreme behavior, with short crown runs through timber. While air resour

See Full Page