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US 12 open, evacuation levels remain the same in Nez Perce County

With the re-opening of US Highway 12 at 6 p.m. Monday, the Nez Perce County Sheriff's Office will also be re-opening McGary Grade Road, Hubbard Gulch and Gifford Ruebens Road.

There is still an active fire in these areas and there may be hazards. It is especially important to travel these roads safely and be aware there is fire apparatus and firemen actively working. Fire conditions may also change rapidly with the weather patterns. These road openings will be re-evaluated as time goes on.

At the community meeting Monday evening, Idaho Transportation Department said the are recommending a 35 mile per hour speed on the section of US 12 from Lenore to Spalding.

NPCSO said, "We are still working to assess the damage after this vicious fire. Please be patient as we work toward lifting the evacuations and get everyone back into their homes. If you have been the victim of the Gwen Fire and have lost a residence please call 1-800-RED-CROSS. Also please contact the Nez Perce County Sheriff's Office if we have not contacted you already."

In anticipation of home re-unification here are some things to be aware of:

NPCSO does not recommend going home until the Level 3 evacuation has been lifted in a resident's area.

  • Homes and outbuildings damaged by wildfire are dangerous locations.
  • Electrical lines may be downed and energized.
  • Internal electrical components may be damaged and hazardous.
  • Propane or natural gas lines may be damaged and leaking.
  • Structures may be unstable and collapse.
  • Floors may be unsafe.
  • There may be loose and dangerous debris on the property.

These are just a few of the many dangers people may face upon returning to a fire damaged residence or outbuilding.

It is recommended to have a professional inspect the area first.

Level 3 (GO) Evacuation Areas:

  • State Highway 3: From Arrow Junction to Juliaetta, Idaho, and all lanes/roads off of it.
  • US Highway 12: To Lenore and all lanes/roads off of it.
  • Arrow Highline Road: And all lanes/roads off of it.
  • Clearwater Ridge Road: And all lanes/roads off of it.
  • Stony Point Road: And all lanes/roads off of it.
  • Hubbard Gulch Road: And all lanes/roads off of it.
  • Cherrylane Road: And all lanes/roads off of it.
  • Gifford Reubens Road: To MP 3.
  • Cottonwood Creek Road: The north 1 mile (just south of Lobo Lane).
  • North Tom Beall Road
  • Mid Tom Beall Road
  • South Tom Beall Road
  • Misner Road: North of Tom Beall Road.
  • Juliaetta City Area: In both Latah and Nez Perce Counties.
  • McGary Grade
  • Myrtle Area
  • Gifford Reubens Road: South 3 miles from US Highway 12.

Level 2 (SET) Evacuation Areas:

  • Leland Road
  • Weischman Road
  • Summit Grade
  • River Road: And all lanes/roads off of it.
  • South of South Tom Beall Road to Culdesac
  • East of Cottonwood Creek Road to Gifford Reubens Road
  • Gifford

Level 1 (READY) Evacuation Areas:

  • River Road: To Lenore.
  • Leland Road: To Leland.
  • Culdesac/Gifford/Summit Grade

View this interactive map that displays fire evacuation areas: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/233ba3e30ad94360ab682cab6232a8da/?fbclid=IwY2xjawETH1tleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHW8CEva14iby-S5vNFIQnN19svKexNVIS8HFWXvACICZPEBjLLq_K5jqjA_aem_jBOyN4sqynfFjWyZHkSVdQ

Nez Perce County is only responsible for issuing evacuation notices for Nez Perce County. Those who reside or have questions about property in Latah County, please visit their Facebook page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/LatahCountySO

For more information about the Gwen Fire, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/IdahoDepartmentofLands/
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