Cause of Mountain Home Wildfire Determined
Monday June 1, 2026Contact: Julie Robinson, 208-334-4312
julie.robinson@doi.idaho.gov
BOISE, ID (June 1, 2026) – Investigators have identified the cause of the approximately 250-acre wildfire that struck Mountain Home last Tuesday evening. A team from the Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office spent Wednesday examining the area east of Flyby Road, south of Airbase Road.
Investigators discovered clear evidence that strong winds during the time of the initial 911 call caused two electrical service lines—one leading to a well pump house and another to a nearby garage—to come into contact. This contact created arcing and sparking. Molten aluminum and melted wire insulation then fell into dry vegetation, igniting a fire that was rapidly driven by sustained winds of 30–35 mph and gusts up to 52 mph.
Four days before the incident, Idaho Power had lifted the powerline after the homeowner reported that the service lines were hanging too low and posed a potential electrocution hazard.
The Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office commended the Idaho State Police, Mountain Home Fire and Police Departments and Elmore County Sheriff’s Office. “Due to their collaborative efforts, we were able to quickly determine the cause,” said Fire Marshal Knute Sandahl.
“Our office is relieved and grateful that the injured sheriff’s deputy is recovering and that everyone affected by this fast-moving fire remained safe. “This wildfire had the potential of being far worse, and we commend first responders for their efforts and encourage communities to plan and mitigate such potential events.”
Tragically, 15 homes were destroyed, along with at least 12 vehicles, including inventory from a wrecking yard. Numerous outbuildings suffered similar damage.
Wildfire Prevention Tip:
Regularly inspect electrical service lines on your property by visual means only. Report low-hanging, damaged, or concerns with trees possibly touching power lines to your utility provider immediately-before Idaho's regular wind events and dry conditions, when fire risk is elevated.
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About the Department of Insurance
The Idaho Department of Insurance has been regulating the business of insurance in Idaho since 1901. The mission of the Department is to serve and protect Idahoans by equitably, effectively and efficiently administering the Idaho Insurance Code and the International Fire Code. For more information, please visit us at doi.idaho.gov or email us at consumeraffairs@doi.idaho.gov.
About the Idaho State Fire Marshal
The State Fire Marshal’s Office participates in and coordinates an integrated statewide system designed to protect human life from fire and explosions through fire prevention, investigation and public education activities. The program involves fire prevention activities, fire/arson investigation, code enforcement and the operation of the National Emergency Response Information System. The State Fire Marshal’s Office provides assistance to local fire agencies throughout the state.