Kootenai County Emergency Management

06/16/2026

With a Red Flag Warning in effect and critical fire weather conditions across our area, now is a good time to remember that even small actions can spark a wildfire. Help reduce the risk by avoiding activities such as:

• Parking or idling vehicles on dry grass
• Driving with trailer chains that may drag and create sparks
• Outdoor burning or debris burning
• Welding, grinding, or other spark-producing activities
• Improper disposal of cigarettes or smoking materials

To stay prepared, check out our wildfire resources such as Alert! Kootenai and Know Your Zone Evacuation Mapping Tool: https://www.kcsheriff.com/314/Emergency-Alert-Evacuation-Resources

06/16/2026

A Red Flag Warning is in effect for Tuesday for hot, dry, and windy conditions. Temperatures will warm into the 80s to low 90s with relative humidity dropping in the teens. The hot, dry conditions combined with strong west winds will increase concerns for critical fire weather conditions. Any new or ongoing grass fires will be capable of spreading rapidly.

06/08/2026

Protect Your Home with Defensible Space 🔥

Creating defensible space around your home can help reduce wildfire risk and make it easier for firefighters to safely protect your property.

🔴 Zone 0 (0–5 ft): Keep it ember-resistant
🟡 Zone 1 (5–30 ft): Lean, clean, and green
🟢 Zone 2 (30–100 ft): Reduce vegetation fuels

Preparation today can make all the difference tomorrow. Learn More: https://id-kootenaicountysheriff.civicplus.com/190/FireSmart

06/08/2026

There will be around a 10-30% chance of thunderstorms regionwide Tuesday, June 9, midday through evening. Any storms that develop will be capable of producing pea sized hail, occasional lightning, and gusty outflow winds up to 30-50 MPH.

05/29/2026

05/29/2026

A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for parts of Idaho, Montana and Washington until 12 AM PDT. Prepare for the potential of severe weather into tonight!

05/27/2026

High temperatures on Thursday are expected to climb into the upper 80s to mid 90s, resulting in a Moderate heat risk across the Idaho Panhandle.

This level of heat can impact individuals who are sensitive to heat, especially those without effective cooling or adequate hydration. Be sure to drink plenty of water, limit strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat, and check on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbors.

Learn More: https://www.weather.gov/otx/