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Posted by John (63.155.39.10) on 21:03:54 08/27/12
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Yellowstone National Park
P.O. Box 168
Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 27, 2012 12-061H
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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August 27, 2012 11:00 a.m.
Summary:
Red Flag conditions Sunday afternoon resulted in an increase in smoke and fire activity and some perimeter growth on the Cygnet, Dewdrop and Range fires in Yellowstone National Park. Isolated thunderstorms forecast for later in the afternoon also brings the chance for lightning and new fire starts. The Fire Danger Level in Yellowstone is Extreme, and fire restrictions remain in effect. Firefighters and equipment from Yellowstone, along with Saguaro National Park (Arizona), Big Thicket National Preserve (Texas), Gallatin National Forest, Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Park County Rural and Paradise Valley Fire Departments (Montana) are assisting on the fires burning in the park.
Cygnet Fire:
This lightning-caused fire 5 miles southeast of Norris Junction experienced some growth and put some smoke into the air on Sunday. It is now estimated at 1400 acres. Firefighters continue efforts to protect a utility corridor south of the road between Norris and Canyon in case the fire reaches the area. A section of the backcountry trails and campsites along the Canyon-to-Norris road have also been closed. Heavy smoke from the fire will be visible along several sections of park roadways throughout the week and may even hinder driving visibility at times. Visitors are asked to use extreme caution while driving where firefighting crews are working along roadways. This fire was discovered on August 10.
Range Fire:
This lightning-caused fire is located 8.5 miles southwest of Tower Fall. It was discovered on July 26 and is approximately 140 acres. This fire is not threatening any structures or roadways, but will likely produce a significant amount of smoke that will be visible from the road over Dunraven Pass and possibly through the Tower Fall area.
Other Fires:
The Dewdrop Fire is located 9 miles southeast of Canyon Village. It was discovered on July 29 and is estimated at just under 110 acres. Firefighters also continue to monitor the Agate, Dewdrop 2 and Camera fires, all of which are less than one acre. While each of these lightning-caused fires may produce smoke when actively burning, most of the visible haze and smoke smell present in the region is drifting from fires burning in Idaho and California.
Weather:
Isolated showers and thunderstorms are forecast for this afternoon. However, little wetting rain is expected. Continued warm daytime temperatures, low humidity and dry fuels combine to create critical fire conditions and potential for significant fire growth.
Fire Restrictions:
Any fire which can produce an ash is prohibited in the backcountry.
Smoking is prohibited along all trails and anywhere in the backcountry. Smoking is allowed in vehicles and along roads, near buildings, and in developed campgrounds or picnic areas if you are standing in an area at least three feet in diameter where nothing on the ground will burn.
Campfires are allowed only in established fire grates or fire rings in picnic areas, campgrounds and housing areas. Charcoal grills are okay in these same areas as well. You can use portable stoves and lanterns which use propane, white gas, kerosene, or jellied petroleum for fuel anywhere in the park.
Impacts to visitors and area residents:
All park entrances, roads, campgrounds, lodging, stores, and other visitor services are open. Backcountry closure details are available at any park Visitor Center or Backcountry Office. Backcountry information can also be obtained by calling 307-344-2160.
Additional Information:
Current information is available 24-hour a day by calling 307-344-2580, on the web at http://www.inciweb.org/unit/5382/.
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