The Idaho Transportation (ITD) is restricting all large commercial traffic from traveling on State Highway 71 due to the ongoing Durkee fire that’s actively burning in Eastern Oregon.
Using SH-71 to access Oregon is not a suitable detour for interstate trucks. SH-71, between Cambridge and the Oregon state line, is narrow and winding. To maintain traffic flow and ensure safety, non-essential commercial vehicles over 26,000 pounds are now prohibited from using this route. Messaging boards have been deployed to inform the public of these restrictions and an alert has been posted to 511.idaho.gov. There is currently no estimate for when these restrictions will be lifted.
Additionally, Interstate 84 between Ontario and Baker City is closed. The Durkee fire is anticipated to expand as high winds are forecasted. There is no estimate for when this segment of I-84 will reopen.
Travelers are advised against heading to Ontario to wait for the reopening. ITD urges drivers to seek alternative routes.