Fire Size Revised Down; Incident Command Escalates Response
The Greer Fire in Idaho has been revised downward to 354 acres following infrared mapping analysis, though the blaze remains completely uncontained as firefighting efforts intensify across steep terrain south of Lewiston.
A Type 3 Incident Management team assumed command of suppression operations at 6 a.m. Sunday, bringing 180 personnel to the fire line. The expanded crew includes five hand crews, engine strike teams, heavy equipment such as dozers and water tenders, and aircraft positioned on standby for immediate deployment. The shift to a higher-level command structure signals the complexity and scale of the fire’s threat to nearby communities and infrastructure.
The previous size estimate of 456 acres was corrected based on more detailed infrared mapping, which provides firefighters and incident commanders with more accurate perimeter data. Despite the reduced acreage, containment remains at zero percent, and crews have been directed to work around the clock until key containment objectives are achieved.
Highway 11 Closure; Conditions Challenging
The Greer Grade section of Idaho Highway 11 was closed Sunday and is expected to remain shut as suppression efforts continue. The closure isolates a critical transportation corridor in the region and underscores the fire’s proximity to populated areas and major routes.
Sunday weather conditions presented both obstacles and temporary advantages. High temperatures dominated the forecast, with light afternoon winds expected. Firefighters leveraged Saturday’s relatively limited fire growth to establish fire lines along the perimeter and conduct aerial suppression using helicopters, water scoopers, and aerial retardant drops. Suppression resources are focused on protecting the Highway 11 perimeter, maintaining containment lines, and assessing hot spots across the burn area.
Public Safety Precautions
Officials have advised the public to avoid the fire area entirely. Drone operations over the fire are prohibited, as aircraft operations—including those of fixed-wing tankers and helicopters—are critical to suppression efforts and create safety hazards for unauthorized aerial activity.
The escalation to Type 3 command and the deployment of specialized crews reflect the resource intensity required to suppress wildfire in Idaho’s rugged terrain during peak fire season. Crews will continue operations until containment milestones are reached and the fire is declared controlled.
For updates on the Greer Fire and Highway 11 closure, residents should monitor official incident information channels. Additional details on wildfire impacts across the Lewiston area are available through local emergency management.