Idaho wildfire near Hailey triggers mandatory evacuations
PUBLISHED Jul 20, 2026, 4:41 PM ET
Read, Watch or Listen
A wildland fire known as the Ohio Fire has grown to about 2,000 acres northeast of Hailey, Idaho, prompting authorities to maintain Level 3 “Go Now” mandatory evacuation orders as of Monday, July 20, 2026. Ignited on Saturday afternoon off Ohio Gulch Road in Blaine County, the blaze is burning through dry brush and steep terrain and is estimated at only 10% containment. Evacuations cover the Indian Creek Subdivision and drainage, the Ohio Gulch neighborhood, the local landfill, Wynn's Compost, the Heatherlands, and the Valley Club. A unified command of local, state, and federal agencies is directing extensive ground and aerial firefighting resources.
By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Early Jul 18, 2026 Fire ignites off Ohio Gulch Road
- Late Jul 18, 2026 Overnight moisture slows initial spread
- Jul 19, 2026 Hot, dry conditions accelerate fire growth
- Jul 19, 2026 Unified command structure established locally
- Jul 19, 2026 Multiple helicopters and air tanker deployed
- Morning Jul 20, 2026 Fire reaches roughly 2,000 acres
- Morning Jul 20, 2026 Level 3 evacuations remain in effect
- Jul 20, 2026 Containment estimated at about ten percent
News Intelligence
- Wildfires can spread rapidly, posing a threat to life and property. If you live in or near Hailey, Idaho, heed evacuation orders immediately. Even if you're not in the immediate area, it's a good reminder to review your own wildfire preparedness plan.
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