"Cascade’s rapid expansion to over 7,400 acres in a short period, combined with sustained 50% containment and significant resource deployment, highlights the challenges of managing large, persistent fires in remote Idaho terrain."
The Cascade wildfire, located 19 miles east of Lowell, Idaho, was discovered on July 17, 2026 and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The fire grew from 2,800 acres on August 6 to a peak of 7,475 acres on September 4, with containment holding at 50% until September 15 when it increased to 70%. Fire behavior remained moderate with backing and flanking until late August, then shifted to smoldering and minimal creeping as the fire stabilized. Personnel numbers rose from 4 on August 21 to 22 by early September, and estimated costs climbed from $80,000 to $180,000 over the timeline. The incident remains active with no evacuation orders reported.
Official source description: 19 Miles E from Lowell, ID
Minimal; Creeping
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Kamiah - Nez Perce Reservation. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
Given the fire’s current minimal, creeping behavior and 70% containment, general wildfire safety precautions apply: stay informed of local updates, avoid outdoor activities near the fire perimeter, and be prepared to evacuate if conditions change.
IRWIN ID: {61492789-AE0F-4274-8388-F0C89238EC3C}
Discovered: Jul 17, 2026
Cause: Natural
Managing Agency: USFS
Est. Cost to Date: $180,000
Coordinates: 46.0956, -115.1353
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in ID.
The Cascade Fire has burned 7,475 acres as of September 15, 2026.
As of the latest update, the Cascade Fire is 70% contained.
The official cause has been listed as: Natural.
The Cascade Fire is burning in Idaho, ID.
Yes, as of the latest official update, the Cascade Fire remains active.
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