A fast-moving wildfire near Worley has prompted mandatory evacuation orders for residents in the Cave Bay area north of Lampert Road, with firefighting crews from multiple agencies responding to contain the blaze. The Lampert Fire, ignited Friday afternoon in timber and grassland near Lake Coeur d’Alene, has burned an estimated 20 acres according to personnel on scene, though initial estimates place the combined size of the Lampert Fire and a nearby Elder Fire at approximately 30 acres.
Fire Response and Immediate Action
The fire spread rapidly through dry timber and grass fuels in the Worley area, triggering a swift response from Kootenai County emergency services. Idaho Department of Lands officials stated that “numerous aerial resources, engines, heavy equipment, and structural fire protection resources are on scene” with “several structures threatened” by the advancing flames.
A “GO NOW” evacuation order was initially issued for the Cave Bay area north of Lampert Road, directing residents to leave immediately. That order was later downgraded to a “GET READY” notice Friday evening, though residents in the Cave Bay Road and Lampert Road area were still instructed to prepare for possible evacuation and remain ready to leave on short notice.
Support Services for Evacuated Residents
Kootenai County Emergency Management established a shelter at Worley Community Church, located at 30203 South 1st Street in Worley, to assist displaced residents. Residents who evacuated livestock have the option to transport animals to the Kootenai County Fairgrounds, with entry available through the Dalton Gate via the RV park entrance to the North Barn.
County officials urged residents in the affected area to register with the “Alert! Kootenai” emergency notification system to receive real-time updates on evacuation status and fire conditions.
Continuing Assessment
Kootenai County Emergency Management officials indicated that the situation would be reassessed in the morning as responders continued evaluating fire behavior and threats to structures. “Status will be updated as responders continue to evaluate the situation,” officials stated, noting that conditions would be reviewed at daybreak to determine if evacuation levels should be adjusted or lifted.
The Lampert Fire adds to ongoing wildfire activity in North Idaho during the summer season. Residents throughout Kootenai County are encouraged to monitor official emergency alerts and prepare defensible space around their properties during fire season.
For updates on evacuation orders and fire status, residents should monitor Kootenai County Emergency Management channels and maintain registration with the Alert! Kootenai system.