🌫️ Air Quality Alert

An Air Quality Advisory remains in effect for Camas, Gooding, Jerome, and Twin Falls Counties until 1:00 PM today. Wildfire smoke has pushed air quality into the unhealthy range. 🚫🔥 Open burning is prohibited.

🦟 West Nile Virus Detected

Health officials have detected West Nile virus in mosquitoes east of Twin Falls. Thankfully, no human cases have been reported locally this summer. Officials recommend using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves, and eliminating standing water around your home. 🏡

🗳️ Idaho Senate Race Update

Idaho Democrat David Roth has ended his campaign for the U.S. Senate. Roth, who won the Democratic primary in May, says he’ll instead focus on helping Democratic candidates compete in races across Idaho this fall.

🏥 Medicaid Expansion Changes

Beginning next year, Idahoans enrolled in Medicaid Expansion will need to meet new work requirements to maintain coverage unless they qualify for an exemption. State officials say most of the program’s 85,000 participants already meet the requirements, while some individuals with medical exemptions may need updated documentation from their healthcare provider.

⚛️ Idaho in the Running for Major Project

Idaho is one of just five states being considered for a new federal nuclear innovation campus. The project could bring thousands of high-paying jobs and significant investment to the state. Governor Brad Little says Idaho’s long history in nuclear research makes it a strong candidate. 💼

💧 Water Costs Could Rise

Water experts warn that climate change, ongoing drought, shrinking snowpack, and declining aquifers could eventually lead to higher water bills across Idaho as communities invest in new water infrastructure. Last year, communities requested $247 million in drinking water project loans, while only $87 million was available.

⚖️ Jerome Booster Club Case

The former treasurer of the Jerome High School Music Booster Club has been sentenced to up to 10 years in prison after more than $10,000 disappeared from the organization. Gordon Kealaiki has already repaid the stolen funds.

🔥 Big Grass Fire Update

Level 3 “Go Now” evacuations remain in effect for portions of Owyhee County as the Big Grass Fire continues burning along the Oregon-Idaho border. The lightning-caused wildfire has now scorched approximately 300,000 acres. 🏠 Silver City remains under a Level 2 “Set” evacuation notice.

🏈 Sports

🏈 High School Football Nears Kickoff

Idaho high school football begins in about four weeks, with 14 schools changing classifications for the 2026 season. Buhl moves from 4A to 3A, joining Wendell and Declo in the Canyon Conference.

⭐ Kimberly will feature two Division I standouts:

🏈 Titus Osterman → Washington
✈️ Joe Barrett → Air Force

Barrett returns after posting more than 1,100 receiving yards last season.

☀️ Heat Safety Reminder

As fall sports practices begin, doctors are urging athletes to stay hydrated and recognize the signs of heat illness. Coaches say practices may be shortened, moved indoors, or adjusted when temperatures or wildfire smoke become unsafe. 🚰

🔵 Boise State Football

The 2026 Boise State football season is now less than 40 days away, and single-game tickets are on sale for all six home games at Albertsons Stadium. The Broncos will host Memphis, South Dakota, and four new Pac-12 opponents this season. 🐴