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Posted by John (63.155.13.24) on 11:01:59 09/20/12
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Yellowstone National Park
P.O. Box 168
Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 20, 2012 12-061T
Al Nash or Dan Hottle
(307) 344-2015
YELL_Public_Affairs@nps.gov
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YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK FIRE UPDATE
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September 20, 2012 11:00 a.m.
Summary:
A continued pattern of mostly sunny skies, seasonal to above normal afternoon high temperatures, and abnormally dry to moderate drought conditions keep breathing life into three fires in Central Yellowstone which were started by lightning several weeks ago. Future fire updates will be issued when conditions change.
Cygnet Fire:
Isolated areas within the 2,800 acre perimeter of the Cygnet Fire are actively burning, especially during the afternoon and early evening. Those traveling along the Norris to Canyon road may encounter areas of dense smoke. While travelers may also observe small pockets of open flame along either side of the road, the fire poses no danger to those who remain along the road corridor. Hikers are encouraged to check at park visitor centers or backcountry offices to see if any temporary trail closures are in effect for this area. This lightning caused fire 5 miles southwest of Canyon Village was discovered on August 10.
Dewdrop Fire:
Windy afternoons can result in this fire producing a column of smoke visible from Dunraven Pass south to Canyon and into the Hayden Valley. It is located in the backcountry 9 miles southeast of Canyon Village. Since it was discovered in late July, the Dewdrop fire has covered about 1,200 acres. Some backcountry closures remain in effect.
Range Fire:
The least active and least visible of the park s three fires, the Range Fire was discovered in late July about 8.5 miles southwest of Tower Fall. This lightning-caused backcountry fire has grown little in recent days, and is estimated at 400 acres.
Other fires and smoke:
Light to moderate smoke covers much of Yellowstone at times. Most of this smoke is coming from large fires which are burning in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Western Montana.
Weather:
The current pattern of sunny, mild days, cool nights, and light winds are forecast through the weekend. The next chance of showers or thunderstorms is forecast for Monday afternoon.
Fire Restrictions:
While the park fire danger level continues to be Extreme, there are no fire restrictions in the park. Visitors are encouraged to be careful with fire.
Impacts to visitors and area residents:
All roads and entrances to the park remain open. The road between Tower Junction and Chittenden Road is set to close for the season on Saturday morning, September 22. Campgrounds, lodging, and other visitor services are beginning to close for the season.
Additional Information:
Fire information is available 24-hours a day by calling 307-344-2580, on the web at http://www.inciweb.org/unit/5382/.
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