"The Upper Smith fire is notable for its rapid expansion from 2,305 to nearly 5,000 acres within a month, requiring sustained deployment of up to 197 personnel and incurring estimated costs exceeding $32 million. "
The Upper Smith wildfire, located in Boundary County, Idaho, was first discovered on July 8, 2026, and is a natural fire under the jurisdiction of the USFS. By the first NIFC report on August 6, it had burned 2,305 acres and was 41% contained with 197 personnel on the scene. Over the next month the fire grew to a peak of 4,848 acres by September 5, with containment hovering around 41% and personnel fluctuating between 34 and 141. Fire behavior varied from minimal and smoldering to moderate and running, with occasional torching and flanking activity, but no large-scale evacuations were reported. The incident remains active as of September 19, 2026, with 4,848 acres burned and 41% containment.
Official source description: 6 Miles W from Porthill, ID
Minimal; Smoldering
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Porthill (seasonal). Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
Given the current moderate fire behavior and 41% containment, residents should remain vigilant for potential flare-ups and follow any local advisories. General wildfire safety guidance applies.
IRWIN ID: {AA3DF707-B3F6-41B8-A5FF-BF502A918FFC}
Discovered: Jul 8, 2026
Cause: Natural
Managing Agency: USFS
Est. Cost to Date: $33,077,508
Coordinates: 48.9275, -116.6078
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in ID.
The Upper Smith Fire has burned 4,848 acres as of September 22, 2026.
As of the latest update, the Upper Smith Fire is 41% contained.
The official cause has been listed as: Natural.
The Upper Smith Fire is burning in Boundary, ID.
Yes, as of the latest official update, the Upper Smith Fire remains active.
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