Full containment expected today on Cherry Fire

Firefighters anticipate full containment of the Cherry Fire near Deary by the end of the day, with current containment at 80%. The blaze ignited on Idaho State Endowment lands undergoing logging, and some flames spread to the Nez Perce Clearwater National Forest. Crews are now engaged in suppression repair to mitigate erosion from firefighting efforts. At its height, 184 firefighters worked to control the fire, and local crews will take over cleanup efforts starting Tuesday morning. The cause of the fire is under investigation, with officials monitoring hot spots before declaring it fully extinguished.

A flight closure for airplanes has been lifted, but drone operators are advised to remain grounded. The Idaho Department of Lands has received assistance from various agencies, including the U. S. Forest Service and local fire departments. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of managing wildfires in actively logged areas.