Fire Spreads Across Quarter-Million Acres
A rapidly expanding wildfire burning near the Idaho-Oregon border has forced residents to evacuate from multiple communities in Owyhee County. The Big Grass Fire, first reported on July 23, had consumed approximately 280,000 acres as of late July, with containment efforts still in early stages.
As of July 26, the fire was only 5% contained, according to fire management officials. The blaze is moving swiftly toward the southwest, threatening communities including Pleasant Valley, South Mountain, and Jordan Valley.
Evacuation Orders in Effect
A Level 3 evacuation order—directing residents to leave immediately—remains in place for the directly threatened areas. Authorities have also issued a Ready Stage Level 1 evacuation notice for residents along Pleasant Valley Road from Triangle through the Triangle area, Triangle Reservoir, and along Flint Creek Road, warning them to prepare for possible immediate departure.
Evacuating residents are instructed to use Pleasant Valley Road toward Jordan Valley, then head north on U.S. Highway 95. An alternate evacuation route is available via Bachman-Grade Road through Oreana for those who need it.
Wildfire smoke from the fire is degrading air quality across the region, affecting Twin Falls County and the broader Magic Valley area as the fire continues to burn.
Campground Closure and Resource Protection
The Bureau of Land Management has closed access to the North Fork Campground along Juniper Mountain Road in Owyhee County through 11:59 p.m. on July 30. The closure protects both the public and firefighting crews working to contain the Big Grass Fire in Oregon and the Peer Fire in Idaho.
Fire officials expect the evacuation orders and closures to remain in effect as long as the fire poses an active threat to communities and infrastructure in the area.
A Red Flag Warning remains in effect for Southern Idaho Highlands through Friday evening, indicating continued dangerous fire weather conditions that could accelerate spread and intensify existing blazes.
What Comes Next
Residents in affected areas should monitor official evacuation notices and local emergency management updates. Those under Level 3 evacuation orders must leave immediately. Those under Ready Stage Level 1 should prepare evacuation supplies and remain ready to depart on short notice. The campground closure is expected to extend through July 30 at minimum, depending on fire containment progress.