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Gold Run Fire Triggers Evacuations and Airspace Restrictions in Idaho

The FAA has issued a temporary flight restriction southeast of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, to support aerial firefighting efforts. Evacuations are in place in Shoshone County

Photo: Rawpixel.com / Shutterstock.com Photo: Rawpixel.com / Shutterstock.com

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a temporary flight restriction (TFR) over an area southeast of Coeur d'Alene in Idaho, the United states, to support ongoing wildfire suppression operations.

According to an FAA Notice, the restriction covers a 7-nautical-mile radius approximately 34 miles southeast of Coeur d'Alene and will remain in effect daily from June 18 through July 2, 2026. The airspace is restricted from the surface up to 7,500 feet.

The temporary restriction was issued to provide a safe operating environment for firefighting aircraft working on the Gold Run Fire incident.

The restricted airspace will be active daily between 1400 UTC and 0500 UTC. Pilots are advised to avoid the area unless authorized by air traffic control or involved in firefighting operations.

Photo: Charles Knowles / Shutterstock.comPhoto: Charles Knowles / Shutterstock.com

Mandatory evacuations are also in effect in parts of Shoshone County, as firefighters battle the fire threatening homes and other structures south of Interstate 90.

According to the Shoshone County Sheriff's Office, the fire is burning between Elizabeth Park and Big Creek and started at approximately 3 p.m. on Tuesday, June 16. The blaze is currently estimated at 50 acres and remains 0% contained.

Authorities said mandatory evacuations are in place for the Big Creek and Elizabeth Park areas and are expected to remain in effect for approximately the next 24 hours, although that timeline could change depending on fire activity and weather conditions.

Residents in the evacuation zones have been instructed to leave immediately and follow directions from law enforcement officials.

The Sheriff's Office said Real Life Ministries' Pinehurst Campus has opened as an evacuation shelter for displaced residents. The field behind the church is also available for horses and other large animals.

Meto Towing in Smelterville is providing temporary storage space for residents needing to relocate RVs, trailers, boats, and other large vehicles or equipment affected by the evacuations.

Approximately 60 personnel are assigned to the incident. Resources currently include nine engines, one crew, and one helicopter, with additional resources ordered.

The Idaho Department of Lands is leading the response, with assistance from the U.S. Forest Service, Silver Valley Fire Rescue, and the Shoshone County Sheriff's Office.

Officials warned that windy conditions continue to affect the area and that fire behavior could change rapidly. Residents outside the evacuation zone are being urged to stay alert, monitor official updates, and avoid traveling into the affected area unless evacuating or responding to the incident.

Idaho Governor Brad Little, in a social media post: "Fire season is here, and Idaho is ready. Thanks to years of investing in strong partnerships, firefighting resources, and proactive management, Idaho is equipped with the tools to protect our lands and people."

Tags: United StatesFireWildfires

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