Environment

Dark smoke rises above a line of trees with mountains visible on the right side of the picture.

From air quality concerns to evacuations, wildfires impact pretty much everyone. We've rounded up some resources to make sure you're prepared as we head into Idaho's wildfire season.

Wildfire Officials Predict Above Normal Fires In Idaho During Late Summer

Boise State Public Radio News | By Frankie Barnhill

Published May 3, 2016 at 8:15 AM MDT

The National Interagency Fire Center in Boise has released its latest fire predictions for 2016.

Wildfire officials say southern Idaho could see above normal fire activity in July and August, while El Nino rains and warmer temperatures in the late spring and early summer could lead to lots of fuels. Lush grasses in May and June should dry by July, increasing the potential for rangeland wildfires.

In northern Idaho, April was a crucial month for the region -- and El Nino played a role there too. Warmer temperatures meant snowpack in the Rocky Mountains melted earlier than normal. Officials say fuels in the forest could get dense, which could make for more severe wildfires in the northern part of the state in August.

Last year’s fires cost a record setting $2.1 billion dollars nationally. Forest Service head Tom Tidwell said last week he expects this year's fire season to be less severe.

Find Frankie Barnhill on Twitter @FABarnhill

Wildfire Officials Predict Above Normal Fires In Idaho During Late Summer

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