WawonaNews.com - October 2017
YOSEMITE-WAWONA ELEMENTARY CHARTER SCHOOL
Board of Directors Meeting
Tuesday, October 3, 2017 at 6 PM
Wawona Elementary School
7925 Chilnualna Falls Road
Wawona, California
AGENDA
- CALL TO ORDER
- ROLL CALL
- CONSENT AGENDA
- Approval of agenda
- Approval of minutes of the regular meeting, ****
- Financial reports
- Monthly approval of warrants (Action needed)
- Financial Report
- Payroll Report
- HEARING OF PERSONS WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD
ACTION ITEMS
- Approve Unaudited actuals state report, was submitted Sept. 15, 2017
- Approve funds for Heater #2 (office). It needs to be replaced, filter upgrades for all 3 heaters
- Discuss and establish a policy committee to work on following policies;
- A uniform complaint policy
- A Mandate Report Policy
- Suicide Prevention Policy
- Transportation Policy
- Approval of transportation MOU with BLUESD
- Discuss and approve a fall (or spring) fundraiser as Yosemite Hospitality will still donate food for the event….same as golf.
INFORMATION ITEMS
- Notification of spraying for bugs, scheduled during Fall Break
- BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
- STAFF REPORTS
- L CAP Update
- NEXT MEETING DATE
- CLOSED SESSION Personnel/Negotiations/Litigation
- Employee Negotiations (Gov. Code 54957.6)
- Personnel (Gov. Code 54957)
- RECOVENE IN OPEN SESSION: ANNOUNCE CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS
- ADJOURNMENT
Yosemite Fire Update September 29th, 2017
There are multiple fires burning in Yosemite National Park's wilderness. Weather has moderated with lower temperatures and higher relative humidities. Updates will be issued on Fridays.
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 6,340 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 85% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday due to cooler temperatures. Crews will continue to monitor as the weather is expected to become warmer and drier this week. Glacier Point road is open, subject to smoke along the road from Badger Pass to Sentinel Dome Parking Area.
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,970 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 85% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona on the west and south flank of the fire. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness Fire activity has been minimal this week.
Le Conte
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: North Side of Hetch Hetchy Reservoir
Size: 1/2 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Sparse ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
Porcupine Campground
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: Right on Porcupine creek
Size: 1/10 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
Single green tree burning at the base with 10x10 ground fire with continuous wet fuels.
Illilouette Creek
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: N 37° 40.391' x W 119° 32.505' elevation of 7,570'
Size: 1/10 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
On north aspect of the ridge in a lightning struck snag with some ground fuel on fire. Empire fire operations will monitor this fire.
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 60 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Porcupine
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 49.336' x W 119° 34.720' at approximately 8154 feet elevation off Tioga road.
Size: 4.8 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Lodgepole/Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Ribbon
Discovered: 9/26/17
Location: 37 45.3 by119 38.5 at approximately 8154 feet elevation off Tioga road.
Size: 10 x 10 Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Low brush Strategy: Monitor
Second Yosemite Rockfall in Two Days Injures One at El Capitan
NY Times - A chunk of rock broke off the face of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park on Thursday afternoon, injuring one person a day after a massive slab fell from the towering monolith and killed a tourist, park officials said.
The rockfall, which crashed to the valley floor and sent a dust cloud into the air that covered cars on the road beneath it, occurred around 3:20 p.m. on the same part of El Capitan that collapsed the day before. It is on the eastern edge near a popular trek for rock climbers known as the Waterfall Route.
Search-and-rescue crews combed the site in a helicopter throughout the afternoon but found no one else injured, said Scott Gediman, a park spokesman. An air ambulance took the injured man, whose condition was not disclosed, to a hospital.
Mr. Gediman said that a geologist had inspected the face of El Capitan in a helicopter during the afternoon and that more scientists were working into the evening, using lidar scanning technology and computer modeling, to determine the size of the rockfall and how it broke away.
He said preliminary assessments had indicated that the piece was “significantly larger” than the collapse on Wednesday, when a 1,300-ton hunk broke away. That rock, which measured 130 feet tall and 65 feet wide, struck a couple from Wales who were standing on top of the pile of rocks at the base of El Capitan. Andrew Foster, 32, was killed and his wife, who sustained serious injuries, was taken by air ambulance to a hospital, the park said. Her name has not been released.
After the first chunk fell Wednesday afternoon, officials said, smaller pieces of rock broke away over the next several hours from the same part of El Capitan. The block that fell on Thursday landed in the same area.
“What happened Wednesday, it was a flake,” Mr. Gediman said. “Today was a chunk, a slab of rock.”
Joseph Moring said he was taking photos along the base of El Capitan on Thursday afternoon when he heard a crashing sound high above. He immediately started recording video and captured the tumbling cloud of dust and rock as it crashed down the wall, slamming to the ground about 600 feet in front of him.
Mr. Moring, who was visiting Yosemite with his wife from their home outside London, said he ran back to the car to check on his wife, who stayed there while he took photos.
“She said she felt the car shake like it was an earthquake,” he said. “I’m literally shook up.”
Ken Yager, the president and founder of the Yosemite Climbing Association, said he was driving in the park when he spotted a “giant dust cloud” that had begun creeping around a rock formation like a slow-moving fog. Eventually, Mr. Yager said, the cloud even briefly blocked out the sunlight.
“I’ve probably only witnessed clouds that big maybe six times,” said Mr. Yager, who has lived in or near the park for decades and has climbed El Capitan many times.
Yosemite documents an average of more than 80 rockfalls a year, but injuries from such events are rare. But El Capitan, which is about 3,000 feet tall, is one of the top destinations within the park — especially for adventurous rock climbers — making a rockfall there more likely to strike someone.
“The fact they are happening now is not unusual,” Mr. Gediman said about the rockfalls. “It’s just in an area with a lot of climbers.”
He said park rangers placed signs near El Capitan after the rockfall on Wednesday letting visitors know about it.
A 2013 report prepared by the United States Geological Survey and the National Park Service presents an inventory of 925 rockfalls, rock slides and other so-called slope movements that occurred from 1857 to 2011. Those events killed 15 people and injured at least 85, the report said.
Nicholas Sitar, a professor of civil engineering at the University of California, Berkeley, said very steep rock faces like El Captain are cut into blocks by what he called “regular fractures” or “joints.”
Freezing and thawing during the seasons cause more and more fractures develop over time and rock slowly breaks down, Dr. Sitar said. “Eventually, a block or a series of blocks become unstable and they fall,” he said in an email late Thursday.
Sometimes, Dr. Sitar said, it is possible to hear the cracking before a fall. But most of the time, there is no warning.
Beth Christensen, a geologist and the director of environmental studies at Adelphi University in Garden City, N.Y., noted that rocks are not solid throughout and have cracks — or “planes of weakness” — that tend to run parallel to a rock’s face.
“It’s kind of serendipitous as to which rock will fall when, but they’re all going to fall eventually,” she said. “You’re never safe standing under a rock face, but then again, you’re never safe getting into a car on the highway.”
Dr. Christensen said that it was possible that Thursday’s rockfall was related to the same crack that caused a slab to fall the day before — a further “expression of weakness in a plane,” she said.
She called rockfalls “random acts of nature” and said that people should be aware of their surroundings.
“In the same way you wouldn’t stand next to a building the day after it burned — you would think there would be some structural weakness — you should probably exercise that same caution in the natural world.”
Twenty to 25 people were killed in the park last year in drownings, falls and other accidents.
Yosemite, which includes about 750,000 acres, is among the most visited national parks in the country. It is about 150 miles east of San Francisco.
.
The rockfall, which crashed to the valley floor and sent a dust cloud into the air that covered cars on the road beneath it, occurred around 3:20 p.m. on the same part of El Capitan that collapsed the day before. It is on the eastern edge near a popular trek for rock climbers known as the Waterfall Route.
Search-and-rescue crews combed the site in a helicopter throughout the afternoon but found no one else injured, said Scott Gediman, a park spokesman. An air ambulance took the injured man, whose condition was not disclosed, to a hospital.
Mr. Gediman said that a geologist had inspected the face of El Capitan in a helicopter during the afternoon and that more scientists were working into the evening, using lidar scanning technology and computer modeling, to determine the size of the rockfall and how it broke away.
He said preliminary assessments had indicated that the piece was “significantly larger” than the collapse on Wednesday, when a 1,300-ton hunk broke away. That rock, which measured 130 feet tall and 65 feet wide, struck a couple from Wales who were standing on top of the pile of rocks at the base of El Capitan. Andrew Foster, 32, was killed and his wife, who sustained serious injuries, was taken by air ambulance to a hospital, the park said. Her name has not been released.
After the first chunk fell Wednesday afternoon, officials said, smaller pieces of rock broke away over the next several hours from the same part of El Capitan. The block that fell on Thursday landed in the same area.
“What happened Wednesday, it was a flake,” Mr. Gediman said. “Today was a chunk, a slab of rock.”
Joseph Moring said he was taking photos along the base of El Capitan on Thursday afternoon when he heard a crashing sound high above. He immediately started recording video and captured the tumbling cloud of dust and rock as it crashed down the wall, slamming to the ground about 600 feet in front of him.
Mr. Moring, who was visiting Yosemite with his wife from their home outside London, said he ran back to the car to check on his wife, who stayed there while he took photos.
“She said she felt the car shake like it was an earthquake,” he said. “I’m literally shook up.”
Ken Yager, the president and founder of the Yosemite Climbing Association, said he was driving in the park when he spotted a “giant dust cloud” that had begun creeping around a rock formation like a slow-moving fog. Eventually, Mr. Yager said, the cloud even briefly blocked out the sunlight.
“I’ve probably only witnessed clouds that big maybe six times,” said Mr. Yager, who has lived in or near the park for decades and has climbed El Capitan many times.
Yosemite documents an average of more than 80 rockfalls a year, but injuries from such events are rare. But El Capitan, which is about 3,000 feet tall, is one of the top destinations within the park — especially for adventurous rock climbers — making a rockfall there more likely to strike someone.
“The fact they are happening now is not unusual,” Mr. Gediman said about the rockfalls. “It’s just in an area with a lot of climbers.”
He said park rangers placed signs near El Capitan after the rockfall on Wednesday letting visitors know about it.
A 2013 report prepared by the United States Geological Survey and the National Park Service presents an inventory of 925 rockfalls, rock slides and other so-called slope movements that occurred from 1857 to 2011. Those events killed 15 people and injured at least 85, the report said.
Nicholas Sitar, a professor of civil engineering at the University of California, Berkeley, said very steep rock faces like El Captain are cut into blocks by what he called “regular fractures” or “joints.”
Freezing and thawing during the seasons cause more and more fractures develop over time and rock slowly breaks down, Dr. Sitar said. “Eventually, a block or a series of blocks become unstable and they fall,” he said in an email late Thursday.
Sometimes, Dr. Sitar said, it is possible to hear the cracking before a fall. But most of the time, there is no warning.
Beth Christensen, a geologist and the director of environmental studies at Adelphi University in Garden City, N.Y., noted that rocks are not solid throughout and have cracks — or “planes of weakness” — that tend to run parallel to a rock’s face.
“It’s kind of serendipitous as to which rock will fall when, but they’re all going to fall eventually,” she said. “You’re never safe standing under a rock face, but then again, you’re never safe getting into a car on the highway.”
Dr. Christensen said that it was possible that Thursday’s rockfall was related to the same crack that caused a slab to fall the day before — a further “expression of weakness in a plane,” she said.
She called rockfalls “random acts of nature” and said that people should be aware of their surroundings.
“In the same way you wouldn’t stand next to a building the day after it burned — you would think there would be some structural weakness — you should probably exercise that same caution in the natural world.”
Twenty to 25 people were killed in the park last year in drownings, falls and other accidents.
Yosemite, which includes about 750,000 acres, is among the most visited national parks in the country. It is about 150 miles east of San Francisco.
.
Wawona Artist Open Studio Tour
Friday – Sunday Sept 29- Oct 1
Sierra Art Trails is here again. This weekend 97 artists will be participating in the open studio tour in the foothills area. Wawona resident Nancy Robbins will be showing at Studio 41, the coolest studio/gallery/fort in Oakhurst. She has a lot of new photographs to share, mostly taken this past year. You may even see some of her old favorites. Ceramic artist Carol Kovach will once again be showing with Nancy.
Come on down to Oakhurst and look for the orange signs dotting the main and back roads. This is a FREE event, but if you wish to know more about the artist and get a map to all the locations you can purchase a catalog at Stellar Gallery. This purchase is not required. Just show up and support an artist by being there. I've even heard that someone might be celebrating a big birthday. Free cake included.
Come on down to Oakhurst and look for the orange signs dotting the main and back roads. This is a FREE event, but if you wish to know more about the artist and get a map to all the locations you can purchase a catalog at Stellar Gallery. This purchase is not required. Just show up and support an artist by being there. I've even heard that someone might be celebrating a big birthday. Free cake included.
Wawona Road Delays - Update 9-27-17
Around South Entrance: There will be 30-minute delays with single lane traffic control 6AM to 8PM as paving operations continue, so there will be extensive truck traffic around South Entrance as crews continue grading and paving the roadways and parking lots. The 30-minute delays will continue thru September and October as crews continue grading and paving operations.
Between the Rostrum and the Wawona Tunnel: There will be up to 15-minute delays 8PM to 6AM as crews continue with culvert-shoulder-ditch repairs.
Between the Rostrum and the Wawona Tunnel: There will be up to 15-minute delays 8PM to 6AM as crews continue with culvert-shoulder-ditch repairs.
Yosemite Mt. Sugar Pine Railroad Reopens After Namesake Fire
Posted by: gina clugston September 22, 2017 - 1:40 pm
FISH CAMP – After more than three weeks without the sounds of the steam locomotive whistles in the forest south of Fish Camp, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad will open the gates this Saturday, Sept. 23.
When the Railroad Fire started on Aug. 29., just across the road from the popular destination, everyone was forced to evacuate with just a few moment’s notice. But this weekend, the staff is excited to welcome visitors and locals alike to enjoy the beautiful fall weather and a ride through the woods behind the historic Shay No. 10 locomotive, or on one of the Jenny Rail Cars.
The steam train will depart at 9:30 and 11 a.m. on Saturday, with Jenny Rail Cars running in between the steam train runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The snack bar will be open, along with the gift shop, museum and bookstore. Visitors can also pan for gold.
Fore more information, visit www.ymsprr.com.
Not All Wildfires Are Bad
Yosemite Fire Update September 22nd, 2017
There are multiple fires burning in Yosemite National Park's wilderness. Weather has moderated with lower temperatures and higher relative humidity. All active fires in the park received moisture form the storm on 9/21. Updates will be done weekly on Fridays.
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 6,340 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday due to cooler temperatures, cloud cover and snow that was received on 9/21. Burning was completed on the NE side of the fire along Glacier Point Rd. This secured the NE end hours before rain and snow hit the fire area. Crews will continue to monitor as the weather is expected to become warmer and drier starting Sunday. Glacier Point road is open, subject to smoke along the road from Badger Pass to Sentinel Dome Parking Area.
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,970 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona on the west and south flank of the fire. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness Fire activity was minimal yesterday due to cooler temperatures, cloud cover and snow that was received on 9/21.
Le Conte
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: North Side of Hetch Hetchy Reservoir
Size: 1/2 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Sparse ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
Showing no smoke.
Porcupine Campground
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: Right on Porcupine creek
Size: 1/10 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
Single green tree burning at the base with 10x10 ground fire with continuous wet fuels.
Morrison
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: N 37° 52.707' x W 119° 36.854' elevation of 8,535 '
Size: 1/10 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
Lightning struck green tree with fire in the top and 10x10 ground fire at the base.
Wolf
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: N 37° 52.597' x W 119° 36.552' elevation of 8,469 '
Size: 1/10 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
Green tree that was blown apart by lightning strike and burning at the base.
Hidden
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: N 37° 48.318' x W 119° 29.607' elevation of 8,564 '
Size: 1/10 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
On the southwest ridge 100 yards from Hidden Lake burning in duff and down logs. Fire activity was creeping and smoldering at the top of the slope. Fire crews will continue to check on it.
Illilouette Creek
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: N 37° 40.391' x W 119° 32.505' elevation of 7,570'
Size: 1/10 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
On north aspect of the ridge in a lightning struck snag with some ground fuel on fire. Empire fire operations will monitor this fire.
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 60 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Minimal smoke can be seen, with some pockets of light smoke interior of the perimeter.
Indian Rock
Discovered: 9/15/17
Location: Fire is ½ mile south of Porcupine Flat Campground Road.
Size: 5’x10’ Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Brush and down timber
Yosemite Creek
Discovered: 8/3/17
Location: N 37° 50.414' x W 119° 38.088' at approximately 7,970 feet elevation
Size: 3.4 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Fire is creeping and smoldering and will continue to be checked by fire crews.
Porcupine
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 49.336' x W 119° 34.720' at approximately 8154 feet elevation off Tioga road.
Size: 4.8 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Lodgepole/Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Fires edge is 30 feet from the Tioga road and is creeping and smoldering and to be checked by fire crews.
No new maps at this time.
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 6,340 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday due to cooler temperatures, cloud cover and snow that was received on 9/21. Burning was completed on the NE side of the fire along Glacier Point Rd. This secured the NE end hours before rain and snow hit the fire area. Crews will continue to monitor as the weather is expected to become warmer and drier starting Sunday. Glacier Point road is open, subject to smoke along the road from Badger Pass to Sentinel Dome Parking Area.
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,970 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona on the west and south flank of the fire. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness Fire activity was minimal yesterday due to cooler temperatures, cloud cover and snow that was received on 9/21.
Le Conte
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: North Side of Hetch Hetchy Reservoir
Size: 1/2 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Sparse ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
Showing no smoke.
Porcupine Campground
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: Right on Porcupine creek
Size: 1/10 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
Single green tree burning at the base with 10x10 ground fire with continuous wet fuels.
Morrison
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: N 37° 52.707' x W 119° 36.854' elevation of 8,535 '
Size: 1/10 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
Lightning struck green tree with fire in the top and 10x10 ground fire at the base.
Wolf
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: N 37° 52.597' x W 119° 36.552' elevation of 8,469 '
Size: 1/10 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
Green tree that was blown apart by lightning strike and burning at the base.
Hidden
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: N 37° 48.318' x W 119° 29.607' elevation of 8,564 '
Size: 1/10 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
On the southwest ridge 100 yards from Hidden Lake burning in duff and down logs. Fire activity was creeping and smoldering at the top of the slope. Fire crews will continue to check on it.
Illilouette Creek
Discovered: 9/12/17
Location: N 37° 40.391' x W 119° 32.505' elevation of 7,570'
Size: 1/10 acre Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low Fuels: Ground fuels
Strategy: Monitor
On north aspect of the ridge in a lightning struck snag with some ground fuel on fire. Empire fire operations will monitor this fire.
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 60 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Minimal smoke can be seen, with some pockets of light smoke interior of the perimeter.
Indian Rock
Discovered: 9/15/17
Location: Fire is ½ mile south of Porcupine Flat Campground Road.
Size: 5’x10’ Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Brush and down timber
Yosemite Creek
Discovered: 8/3/17
Location: N 37° 50.414' x W 119° 38.088' at approximately 7,970 feet elevation
Size: 3.4 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Fire is creeping and smoldering and will continue to be checked by fire crews.
Porcupine
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 49.336' x W 119° 34.720' at approximately 8154 feet elevation off Tioga road.
Size: 4.8 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Lodgepole/Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Fires edge is 30 feet from the Tioga road and is creeping and smoldering and to be checked by fire crews.
No new maps at this time.
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
New Date Set For Large Item Pickup
The large item pickup in Wawona which had been originally scheduled for Saturday, September 9 has been re-scheduled for Saturday, October 14 from 9:00 to 1:00 at the community center.
NO Refrigerated Units – including Refrigerator, Freezer or Air conditioners
No Household Hazardous Waste (ie paint, solvents, batteries, light fixtures that have a ballast etc) All the rest is ok - until bin is full that day.
Aftermath of Railroad Fire
Yosemite Fire Update September 12th, 2017
There are multiple fires burning in Yosemite National Park's wilderness. Showers and thunderstorms are possible each afternoon and evening through Thursday with increased relative humidity and cooler temperatures. Gusty and erratic winds are possible with any thunderstorm that develops.
Yesterday smoke was good to moderate throughout the Yosemite area for most of the day. Dispersion remains poor today and tomorrow, however most areas are likely to stay in the good to moderate range unless there is new fire activity. The fire area received substantial wetting rain yesterday and activity should be minimal under continued high humidity and light winds. Fire Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities. Community members who are sensitive to smoke may want to close their windows and doors, limit outdoor activity, and monitor the air quality forecast linked below for changes to the forecasted patterns.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/aqmonitoring.htm
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
Railroad Fire is 12,407 acres and 80% contained. Thunderstorms brought about a quarter of an inch of rain last night, today crews will continue mop up operations to extinguish hot spots near the perimeter. Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5553/
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,840 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona on the west and south flank of the fire. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness.
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5502/
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17 Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 6,000 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday due to increased cloud cover and precipitation. Fire crews implemented a strategic burning operation along Glacier Point road from Mono Meadow Trailhead towards Horizon Ski trail. Glacier Point Road remains closed until further notice due to fire operations.
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5475/
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 60 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Fire personnel have secured the northern edge of the fire which will prevent fire from entering steep slopes down into Little Yosemite Valley. Fire continues to back towards the Cascade Cliff area. Smoke will be visible from the high country.
Rattlesnake
Discovered: 9/7/17
Location: Hwy 120/Big Oak Flat Rd. at Foresta Rd.
Size: 15 ac. Cause: RV/ Vehicle fire Containment: 100% Fuels: Grass mixed shrubs
The fire started due to an RV catching fire and spreading north into the old Big Meadow burn scar which helped limit its spread. Yosemite fire crews will be checking this fire.
Yosemite Creek
Discovered: 8/3/17
Location: N 37° 50.414' x W 119° 38.088' at approximately 7,970 feet elevation
Size: 3.4 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Fire is creeping and smoldering and will continue to be checked by fire crews.
Porcupine
Discovered: 8/2/17 Location: N 37° 49.336' x W 119° 34.720' at approximately 8154 feet elevation off Tioga road.
Size: 4.8 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Lodgepole/Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Fires edge is 30 feet from the Tioga road and is creeping and smoldering and to be checked by fire crews.
There are no new maps for today .
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
Yesterday smoke was good to moderate throughout the Yosemite area for most of the day. Dispersion remains poor today and tomorrow, however most areas are likely to stay in the good to moderate range unless there is new fire activity. The fire area received substantial wetting rain yesterday and activity should be minimal under continued high humidity and light winds. Fire Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities. Community members who are sensitive to smoke may want to close their windows and doors, limit outdoor activity, and monitor the air quality forecast linked below for changes to the forecasted patterns.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/aqmonitoring.htm
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
Railroad Fire is 12,407 acres and 80% contained. Thunderstorms brought about a quarter of an inch of rain last night, today crews will continue mop up operations to extinguish hot spots near the perimeter. Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5553/
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,840 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona on the west and south flank of the fire. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness.
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5502/
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17 Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 6,000 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday due to increased cloud cover and precipitation. Fire crews implemented a strategic burning operation along Glacier Point road from Mono Meadow Trailhead towards Horizon Ski trail. Glacier Point Road remains closed until further notice due to fire operations.
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5475/
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 60 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Fire personnel have secured the northern edge of the fire which will prevent fire from entering steep slopes down into Little Yosemite Valley. Fire continues to back towards the Cascade Cliff area. Smoke will be visible from the high country.
Rattlesnake
Discovered: 9/7/17
Location: Hwy 120/Big Oak Flat Rd. at Foresta Rd.
Size: 15 ac. Cause: RV/ Vehicle fire Containment: 100% Fuels: Grass mixed shrubs
The fire started due to an RV catching fire and spreading north into the old Big Meadow burn scar which helped limit its spread. Yosemite fire crews will be checking this fire.
Yosemite Creek
Discovered: 8/3/17
Location: N 37° 50.414' x W 119° 38.088' at approximately 7,970 feet elevation
Size: 3.4 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Fire is creeping and smoldering and will continue to be checked by fire crews.
Porcupine
Discovered: 8/2/17 Location: N 37° 49.336' x W 119° 34.720' at approximately 8154 feet elevation off Tioga road.
Size: 4.8 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Lodgepole/Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Fires edge is 30 feet from the Tioga road and is creeping and smoldering and to be checked by fire crews.
There are no new maps for today .
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
Yosemite Fire Update September 10th, 2017
There are multiple fires burning in Yosemite National Park's wilderness. Showers and thunderstorms are possible each afternoon and evening through Tuesday, with a slight increase in temperature and lower relative humidities. Gusty and erratic winds are possible with any thunderstorm that develops
The Railroad Fire Burning on the Sierra National Forest is 12,358 acres and 70% contained . Highway 41 re-opened yesterday to the public at 2 pm . For the most up-to-date information go to inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5553/
Rattlesnake
Discovered: 9/7/17
Location: Hwy 120/Big Oak Flat Rd. at Foresta Rd.
Size: 15 ac. Cause: RV/ Vehicle fire Containment: 100% Fuels: Grass mixed shrubs
The fire started due to an RV catching fire and spreading north into the old Big Meadow Burn scar which helped limit its spread. Yosemite fire crews will be checking this fire.
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,740 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness backing through scattered pockets of dense fuel, towards Johnson Creek.
The northern spot fire near Turner Meadow has burned into the main fire. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds due to the storms. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and secured with hose lays and handline. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness. The fire will be monitored by aircraft and fire lookouts. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk
https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5502/
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 5,787 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was moderated yesterday due to spotty precipitation over the fire area. . The most activity was on the north east section near Glacier Point Road. Glacier Point Road remains closed until further notice due to fire operations
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. Today crews will continue preparation along Glacier Point road from Bridalveil Campground to Mono Meadow trailhead and begin implementation of strategic burning operations which will minimize high fire behavior along the road. The west and south flanks of the fire are contained, holding, and will continue to be monitored by aircraft and fire personnel. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5475/
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 60 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Fire personnel are on scene and will be securing the northern edge of the fire which will prevent fire from entering steep slopes down into Little Yosemite Valley. Fire continues to back towards the Cascade Cliff area. Smoke will be visible from the high country.
Air quality continues to improve throughout the Yosemite area. Winds from a more easterly direction and potential rain from afternoon thunderstorms tonight should keep the remaining Railroad Fire emissions out of Yosemite. This wind direction also makes more direct impacts in El Portal, Wawona, and Yosemite West from the South Fork and Empire Fire possible, but likely transient and dependent on the day’s fire activity. Fire Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities. Community members who are sensitive to smoke may want to close their windows and doors, limit outdoor activity, and monitor the air quality forecast linked below for changes to the forecasted patterns.
https://wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/aqmonitoring.htm
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
There are no new maps today
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
The Railroad Fire Burning on the Sierra National Forest is 12,358 acres and 70% contained . Highway 41 re-opened yesterday to the public at 2 pm . For the most up-to-date information go to inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5553/
Rattlesnake
Discovered: 9/7/17
Location: Hwy 120/Big Oak Flat Rd. at Foresta Rd.
Size: 15 ac. Cause: RV/ Vehicle fire Containment: 100% Fuels: Grass mixed shrubs
The fire started due to an RV catching fire and spreading north into the old Big Meadow Burn scar which helped limit its spread. Yosemite fire crews will be checking this fire.
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,740 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness backing through scattered pockets of dense fuel, towards Johnson Creek.
The northern spot fire near Turner Meadow has burned into the main fire. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds due to the storms. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and secured with hose lays and handline. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness. The fire will be monitored by aircraft and fire lookouts. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk
https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5502/
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 5,787 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was moderated yesterday due to spotty precipitation over the fire area. . The most activity was on the north east section near Glacier Point Road. Glacier Point Road remains closed until further notice due to fire operations
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. Today crews will continue preparation along Glacier Point road from Bridalveil Campground to Mono Meadow trailhead and begin implementation of strategic burning operations which will minimize high fire behavior along the road. The west and south flanks of the fire are contained, holding, and will continue to be monitored by aircraft and fire personnel. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5475/
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 60 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Fire personnel are on scene and will be securing the northern edge of the fire which will prevent fire from entering steep slopes down into Little Yosemite Valley. Fire continues to back towards the Cascade Cliff area. Smoke will be visible from the high country.
Air quality continues to improve throughout the Yosemite area. Winds from a more easterly direction and potential rain from afternoon thunderstorms tonight should keep the remaining Railroad Fire emissions out of Yosemite. This wind direction also makes more direct impacts in El Portal, Wawona, and Yosemite West from the South Fork and Empire Fire possible, but likely transient and dependent on the day’s fire activity. Fire Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities. Community members who are sensitive to smoke may want to close their windows and doors, limit outdoor activity, and monitor the air quality forecast linked below for changes to the forecasted patterns.
https://wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/aqmonitoring.htm
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
There are no new maps today
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
Yosemite Fire Update September 9th, 2017
There are multiple fires burning in Yosemite National Park's wilderness. Very little change in temperatures and humidities through the weekend. Slight chance for afternoon/early evening showers and thunderstorms for the next several days. A slight warming trend will begin Sunday.
Rattlesnake
Discovered: 9/7/17
Location: Hwy 120/Big Oak Flat Rd. at Foresta Rd.
Size: 15 ac. Cause: RV/ Vehicle fire Containment: 100% Fuels: Grass mixed shrubs
Fire started due to an RV catching fire and spreading north into the vegetation. Fire is burning in the old Big Meadow Burn scar which helped limit its spread. Crews and aircraft were able to attack the fire and hold it to 15 aces. Crews will continue to mop up hot spots and secure lines today.
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,640 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness through scattered pockets of dense fuel and the south flank backing into the South Fork of the Merced. Very little change in temperatures and humidities through the weekend. Slight chance for afternoon / early evening showers and thunderstorms for the next several days. A slight warming trend will begin Sunday.
The northern spot fire remains south of handline at Turner meadow, crews brought fire down to Chilnualna Creek to secure the spot fire with the main fire. Patrols continue along portions of the fire closest to Wawona. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds due to the storms. Bucket work may be continued on the southern boundary of the fire. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and secured with hose lays and handlines. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness, and will be monitored by aircraft due to steep and rugged terrain. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk.
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 5,637 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was active yesterday. Glacier Point Road is closed. Crews are completing preparing the Glacier Point Road to implement their plan for strategic burning operations that may take place on the GP road to minimize high fire behavior along the road. Very little change in temperatures and humidities through the weekend. Slight chance for afternoon/early evening showers and thunderstorms for the next several days. A slight warming trend will begin Sunday.
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. The north end of the fire is in monitor status, the west and south flanks of the fire are contained and holding. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. Fire management personnel are implementing this strategy on three sides of the fire to minimize further smoke production in heavy fuels. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem
Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 58 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Smoke may be visible from high elevation viewpoints.
Yosemite Creek
Discovered: 8/3/17
Location: N 37° 50.414' x W 119° 38.088' at approximately 7,970 feet elevation
Size: 2.4 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Porcupine
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 49.336' x W 119° 34.720' at approximately 8154 feet elevation off Tioga road near Yosemite Creek Campground road, creeping and smoldering, burning in large logs which are creating smoke.
Size: 4.0 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Lodgepole/Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Knob 91
Discovered: 8/4/17
Location 37° 52.185' x W 119° 35.217' at approximately 8980 feet elevation
Size: .39 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Timber litter Strategy: Monitor
No updated maps today.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/aqmonitoring.htm
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
Rattlesnake
Discovered: 9/7/17
Location: Hwy 120/Big Oak Flat Rd. at Foresta Rd.
Size: 15 ac. Cause: RV/ Vehicle fire Containment: 100% Fuels: Grass mixed shrubs
Fire started due to an RV catching fire and spreading north into the vegetation. Fire is burning in the old Big Meadow Burn scar which helped limit its spread. Crews and aircraft were able to attack the fire and hold it to 15 aces. Crews will continue to mop up hot spots and secure lines today.
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,640 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness through scattered pockets of dense fuel and the south flank backing into the South Fork of the Merced. Very little change in temperatures and humidities through the weekend. Slight chance for afternoon / early evening showers and thunderstorms for the next several days. A slight warming trend will begin Sunday.
The northern spot fire remains south of handline at Turner meadow, crews brought fire down to Chilnualna Creek to secure the spot fire with the main fire. Patrols continue along portions of the fire closest to Wawona. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds due to the storms. Bucket work may be continued on the southern boundary of the fire. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and secured with hose lays and handlines. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness, and will be monitored by aircraft due to steep and rugged terrain. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk.
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 5,637 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was active yesterday. Glacier Point Road is closed. Crews are completing preparing the Glacier Point Road to implement their plan for strategic burning operations that may take place on the GP road to minimize high fire behavior along the road. Very little change in temperatures and humidities through the weekend. Slight chance for afternoon/early evening showers and thunderstorms for the next several days. A slight warming trend will begin Sunday.
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. The north end of the fire is in monitor status, the west and south flanks of the fire are contained and holding. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. Fire management personnel are implementing this strategy on three sides of the fire to minimize further smoke production in heavy fuels. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem
Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 58 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Smoke may be visible from high elevation viewpoints.
Yosemite Creek
Discovered: 8/3/17
Location: N 37° 50.414' x W 119° 38.088' at approximately 7,970 feet elevation
Size: 2.4 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Porcupine
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 49.336' x W 119° 34.720' at approximately 8154 feet elevation off Tioga road near Yosemite Creek Campground road, creeping and smoldering, burning in large logs which are creating smoke.
Size: 4.0 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Lodgepole/Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Knob 91
Discovered: 8/4/17
Location 37° 52.185' x W 119° 35.217' at approximately 8980 feet elevation
Size: .39 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Timber litter Strategy: Monitor
No updated maps today.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/aqmonitoring.htm
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
Railroad Fire Now 64 Percent Contained, Highway 41 Reopens
Posted by: gina clugston September 9, 2017 - 9:31 am
OAKHURST — A second night of cooler temperatures with higher humidity kept activity on the Railroad Fire to a minimum overnight.
The fire is now estimated at 12,353 acres with 64 percent containment.
Burning operations along firelines to the north and east of the community of Cedar Valley continued successfully throughout the night.
Crews will continue to extinguish hot spots along the perimeter of the fire.
Highway 41 is scheduled to reopen this afternoon, and travelers along the route can expect to see smoke within the fire area as interior islands and heavy down material smolder. They should also be aware that large equipment will still be traveling along the winding mountain road, and give them a wide berth when encountered.
The fire still remains active on the east side in the Big Sandy and Speckerman Mountain area, and it continues to back and creep through Nelder Grove.
Fire crews have begun suppression repair – repairing or improving land damaged during fire suppression and line construction activity. Resource Advisors from the Forest Service have identified the extent and the areas is which that is needed. Those repairs can vary depending upon the intended use of the affected area after the fire.
Resource Advisors also identify natural and cultural resources which may have been impacted during the fire, and have been actively involved throughout the incident.
Today’s forecast is calling for slightly higher temperatures, between 75 and 85 degrees, and a 20 percent chance of thunderstorms this afternoon, with gusty and erratic winds possible should those develop.
There are currently 1,079 personnel assigned to the incident, 6 injuries have been reported and 14 structures lost.
Update on evacuations and closures:
- The Fish Camp area was open to the public on Thursday, though people have had to access from the north as Highway 41 is closed until later this afternoon.
- Sky Ranch opened to residents only at 11:30 a.m. yesterday, up to Buckskin only.
- Sugar Pine is scheduled to be open to residents only at 3 p.m. on Saturday.
- Highway 41 will be open to everyone by 5 p.m. on Saturday.
- Cedar Valley – officials hope to reopen by the end of the weekend.
Forest Road Closures:
- Road 632 (Sky Ranch) beyond Buckskin
- Forest Road 6S07 (Jackson Road) to Beasore
- Forest Road 5S10 at 5S39
- Forest Road 6S13 at Road 274
- Forest Road 6S08 at 6S36
- Forest Road 6S10 at 6S39
- Forest Road 6S99 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40X at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 5S40Y at Beasore Road
- Worman Road one mile in from Highway 49 (at Road 601).
Free food disposal for evacuees:
To assist residents returning to their homes after being evacuated for the Railroad and Mission Fires, the Madera County Sheriff’s Office along with the Public Works Department are providing disposal sites for food waste only.
Disposal sites are being provided at no cost and can be found at the following locations:
- Residents returning after the Railroad Fire may utilize the dumpster located in front of the office at the Sheriff’s Substation located at 48267 Liberty Drive in Oakhurst.
- Residents returning after the Mission Fire may utilize the North Fork Transfer Site at 33699 Road 274 in North Fork.
Passes are available at the Sheriff’s Substation, 48267 Liberty Drive, on Saturday, Sept. 9, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Yosemite Fire Update September 8th, 2017
There are multiple fires burning in Yosemite National Park's wilderness. Very little change in temperatures and humidities through the weekend. Slight chance for afternoon/early evening showers and thunderstorms for the next several days. A slight warming trend will begin Sunday.
Rattlesnake
Discovered: 9/7/17
Location: Hwy 120/Big Oak Flat Rd. at Foresta Rd.
Size: 16 ac. Cause: RV/ Vehicle fire Containment: 63% Fuels: Grass mixed shrubs
Fire started due to an RV catching fire and spreading north into the vegetation. Fire is burning in the old Big Meadow Burn scar which helped limit its spread. Crews and aircraft were able to attack the fire and hold it to 16 aces. Crews will continue to mop up hot spots and secure lines today.
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,640 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness through scattered pockets of dense fuel and the south flank backing into the South Fork of the Merced. Very little change in temperatures and humidities through the weekend. Slight chance for afternoon / early evening showers and thunderstorms for the next several days. A slight warming trend will begin Sunday.
The northern spot fire remains south of handline at Turner meadow, crews brought fire down to Chilnualna Creek to secure the spot fire with the main fire. Patrols continue along portions of the fire closest to Wawona. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds due to the storms. Bucket work may be continued on the southern boundary of the fire. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and secured with hose lays and handlines. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness, and will be monitored by aircraft due to steep and rugged terrain. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk.
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 5,637 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday. Acreage has increased due to more accurate mapping. Glacier Point Road is open. Signage and traffic control will be in place to mitigate smoke and other hazards on the road; there is a potential for implementing temporary road closures or single lane convoys from Bridalveil Camp Ground to Mono Meadow trailhead. Very little change in temperatures and humidities through the weekend. Slight chance for afternoon/early evening showers and thunderstorms for the next several days. A slight warming trend will begin Sunday.
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. The north end of the fire is in monitor status, the west and south flanks of the fire are contained and holding. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. Fire management personnel are implementing this strategy on three sides of the fire to minimize further smoke production in heavy fuels. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem
Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 58 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Smoke may be visible from high elevation viewpoints.
Yosemite Creek
Discovered: 8/3/17
Location: N 37° 50.414' x W 119° 38.088' at approximately 7,970 feet elevation
Size: 2.4 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Porcupine
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 49.336' x W 119° 34.720' at approximately 8154 feet elevation off Tioga road near Yosemite Creek Campground road, creeping and smoldering, burning in large logs which are creating smoke.
Size: 4.0 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Lodgepole/Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Knob 91
Discovered: 8/4/17
Location 37° 52.185' x W 119° 35.217' at approximately 8980 feet elevation
Size: .39 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Timber litter Strategy: Monitor
No new map updates today.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/aqmonitoring.htm
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
Rattlesnake
Discovered: 9/7/17
Location: Hwy 120/Big Oak Flat Rd. at Foresta Rd.
Size: 16 ac. Cause: RV/ Vehicle fire Containment: 63% Fuels: Grass mixed shrubs
Fire started due to an RV catching fire and spreading north into the vegetation. Fire is burning in the old Big Meadow Burn scar which helped limit its spread. Crews and aircraft were able to attack the fire and hold it to 16 aces. Crews will continue to mop up hot spots and secure lines today.
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,640 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness through scattered pockets of dense fuel and the south flank backing into the South Fork of the Merced. Very little change in temperatures and humidities through the weekend. Slight chance for afternoon / early evening showers and thunderstorms for the next several days. A slight warming trend will begin Sunday.
The northern spot fire remains south of handline at Turner meadow, crews brought fire down to Chilnualna Creek to secure the spot fire with the main fire. Patrols continue along portions of the fire closest to Wawona. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds due to the storms. Bucket work may be continued on the southern boundary of the fire. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and secured with hose lays and handlines. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness, and will be monitored by aircraft due to steep and rugged terrain. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk.
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 5,637 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday. Acreage has increased due to more accurate mapping. Glacier Point Road is open. Signage and traffic control will be in place to mitigate smoke and other hazards on the road; there is a potential for implementing temporary road closures or single lane convoys from Bridalveil Camp Ground to Mono Meadow trailhead. Very little change in temperatures and humidities through the weekend. Slight chance for afternoon/early evening showers and thunderstorms for the next several days. A slight warming trend will begin Sunday.
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. The north end of the fire is in monitor status, the west and south flanks of the fire are contained and holding. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. Fire management personnel are implementing this strategy on three sides of the fire to minimize further smoke production in heavy fuels. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem
Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 58 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Smoke may be visible from high elevation viewpoints.
Yosemite Creek
Discovered: 8/3/17
Location: N 37° 50.414' x W 119° 38.088' at approximately 7,970 feet elevation
Size: 2.4 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Porcupine
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 49.336' x W 119° 34.720' at approximately 8154 feet elevation off Tioga road near Yosemite Creek Campground road, creeping and smoldering, burning in large logs which are creating smoke.
Size: 4.0 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Lodgepole/Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Knob 91
Discovered: 8/4/17
Location 37° 52.185' x W 119° 35.217' at approximately 8980 feet elevation
Size: .39 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Timber litter Strategy: Monitor
No new map updates today.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/aqmonitoring.htm
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
Incident Commander Deron Mills Gives Update on Fire
Crews Turn The Corner On Railroad Fire, Evacuations Lifted Next Few Days
Posted by: gina clugston September 7, 2017 - 8:26 pm
OAKHURST — At a community meeting tonight in Oakhurst, residents, travelers on Highway 41 and those who are employed north of town heard very good news.
Fire officials have announced the schedule for the lifting of evacuations on the Railroad Fire.
There are currently 1,045 personnel assigned to the incident including 95 engines, 19 hand crews and 15 dozers.
The number of structures lost has been updated to 17. That includes 5 homes, 5 historic structures, and 7 miscellaneous buildings.
Six injuries to firefighters have been reported.
We have been told that this morning’s perimeter map showing the line from Sugar Pine down through Lewis Creek as contained, was incorrect.
Though that area is not yet ready to be put in the “all good” column, there were no issues reported along that line today, and crews have made excellent progress holding the fire on the east side of Lewis Creek.
The spot fire north of Road 620 didn’t grow in size today, and crews worked on mop-up and strengthening the perimeter.
Some heat was found inside the lines on the west flank about halfway up to Fish Camp today, but nothing that caused fire managers any concern. The forward progress of the spot fire has been stopped, and firefighters are working all around the entire perimeter.
Things are still quiet along the northern lines across from Fish Camp to the Tenaya and along Jackson Road.
Crews completed tying in the dozer lines around the northeast corner near Buffin Meadow and Long Meadow, and south toward Big Sandy. The fire continues to spread east toward Little Sandy and down from Speckerman Mountain.
In Cedar Valley, it is reported to be cooling off nicely. Late this afternoon, crews were working on the line just off Manzanita, and had a nice even line of fire all the way across into the area that’s already burned. The fire continues to back down the hill toward the homes, but is exhibiting what is considered “very good fire behavior.”
Crews found an old fire break in the Manzanita area today, and did some improvements to that line. The fire is being allowed to back down to the line so as to avoid heavy dozer activity that might create problems for residents when the rains come.
Up at Calvin Crest, firefighters cleaned up the dozer line. As the fire moved out of Nelder Grove, it went through a dozer line put in a few days ago, so a new line was cut right at the fire’s edge to stop it there. There will be a lot more resources in the section of the fire now that higher priorities have been dealt with.
On the east flank where the fire made a run yesterday, the fire slopped over the road. The new big picture is to take it out from Little Sandy to Big Sandy.
Not a lot of big concerns today, but crews are being reassigned to new areas of the fire as more resources arrive at camp, and parts of the line cool down.
Tonight, crews will continue burn operations on the east flank of the fire while structure protection groups make sure homes are safe.
On the weather front, there is drier air moving in, with cooler temperatures tonight mainly in the 50s. There is no chance of thunderstorms in the forecast.
Last night, there was another firefighter injury of burns to the hand. This is the second of this type of injury, and the sixth injury on this fire.
Preparing for repopulation:
Looking forward, the Madera County Sheriff’s Office would like to expedite the process for residents to gain access to their residences when the danger from the Railroad Fire has passed and repopulation occurs.
In light of this effort, MCSO will open the Oakhurst Substation for residents to come present documentation as proof they live in the evacuated area. Proof of residency could include Driver’s License, Vehicle Registration, or Utility Bill.
The Sheriff’s Office will provide residents with a pass for entry. This will expedite access when re-population occurs, as well as assist with the flow of in/out traffic during the first 24 hours of re-population.
This action serves to simplify the process and maintain order when people are allowed to return home safely.
The hours of the Oakhurst Substation, located at 48267 Liberty Drive, are listed below.
The public closure in the the community of Fish Camp and the Tenaya Lodge will be lifted tomorrow. Highway 41 and the area is still closed to the public. Residents must enter from inside Yosemite National Park and show identification until the road opens on Saturday.
A mandatory evacuation order is in place for the entire Cedar Valley subdivision.
Highway 41 remains closed in both directions from Cedar Valley on the south (about three miles north of Oakhurst), to Yosemite National Park. Yosemite visitors should use Highway 49 to Highway 140 or 120 for entrance to the National Park.
Still under a mandatory evacuation are the Narrow Gauge Inn, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, the community of Sugar Pine including the Christian Camp, Cedar Valley, Sky Ranch, Big Sandy and Summerdale campgrounds, Nelder Grove, Camp Redwood, Paradise Springs, Calvin Crest, ECCO Conference Center, and Soquel and Texas Flat campgrounds.
Road 620 (Bissett Station) has been given an evacuation advisory due to the spot fire just north toward Miami Motorcycle Trails.
Forest Road Closures:
The Central California Animal Disaster Team (CCADT) has activated a small animal shelter at the Oakhurst Community Center Pavilion Building, and are currently house 47 pets. Large animals can be sheltered at the Coarsegold Rodeo Grounds, at 44777 Rodeo Grounds Lane in Coarsegold. The phone number is 559-676-7864.
For animal evacuations, please call the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (559) 675-7770 to request help. CCADT will be working with Madera County Animal Control to help with evacs if needed
The hot line number for the Red Cross is 559-343-2549.
All roads past Wawona inside Yosemite are open, including Glacier Point Road, which had been closed since Aug. 27 due to increased fire activity on the Empire Fire. Expect smoky conditions.
For fire updates, residents and visitors can message RAILROADFIRE (one word) to 888777.
A fire information line has been established for the Railroad Fire at 559-373-0040.
The Railroad Fire was reported at 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, just south of the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad on the west side of Highway 41. It is burning on the Bass Lake Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
OAKHURST — At a community meeting tonight in Oakhurst, residents, travelers on Highway 41 and those who are employed north of town heard very good news.
Fire officials have announced the schedule for the lifting of evacuations on the Railroad Fire.
- The Fish Camp area will be open to the public tomorrow, though people will have to access from the north as Highway 41 will still be closed until Saturday.
- Sky Ranch will be open to residents only at 5 p.m. on Friday up to Buckskin only.
- Sugar Pine will be open to residents only at 3 p.m. on Saturday.
- Highway 41 will be open to everyone at 5 p.m. on Saturday.
- Cedar Valley – officials hope to reopen by the end of the weekend.
There are currently 1,045 personnel assigned to the incident including 95 engines, 19 hand crews and 15 dozers.
The number of structures lost has been updated to 17. That includes 5 homes, 5 historic structures, and 7 miscellaneous buildings.
Six injuries to firefighters have been reported.
We have been told that this morning’s perimeter map showing the line from Sugar Pine down through Lewis Creek as contained, was incorrect.
Though that area is not yet ready to be put in the “all good” column, there were no issues reported along that line today, and crews have made excellent progress holding the fire on the east side of Lewis Creek.
The spot fire north of Road 620 didn’t grow in size today, and crews worked on mop-up and strengthening the perimeter.
Some heat was found inside the lines on the west flank about halfway up to Fish Camp today, but nothing that caused fire managers any concern. The forward progress of the spot fire has been stopped, and firefighters are working all around the entire perimeter.
Things are still quiet along the northern lines across from Fish Camp to the Tenaya and along Jackson Road.
Crews completed tying in the dozer lines around the northeast corner near Buffin Meadow and Long Meadow, and south toward Big Sandy. The fire continues to spread east toward Little Sandy and down from Speckerman Mountain.
In Cedar Valley, it is reported to be cooling off nicely. Late this afternoon, crews were working on the line just off Manzanita, and had a nice even line of fire all the way across into the area that’s already burned. The fire continues to back down the hill toward the homes, but is exhibiting what is considered “very good fire behavior.”
Crews found an old fire break in the Manzanita area today, and did some improvements to that line. The fire is being allowed to back down to the line so as to avoid heavy dozer activity that might create problems for residents when the rains come.
Up at Calvin Crest, firefighters cleaned up the dozer line. As the fire moved out of Nelder Grove, it went through a dozer line put in a few days ago, so a new line was cut right at the fire’s edge to stop it there. There will be a lot more resources in the section of the fire now that higher priorities have been dealt with.
On the east flank where the fire made a run yesterday, the fire slopped over the road. The new big picture is to take it out from Little Sandy to Big Sandy.
Not a lot of big concerns today, but crews are being reassigned to new areas of the fire as more resources arrive at camp, and parts of the line cool down.
Tonight, crews will continue burn operations on the east flank of the fire while structure protection groups make sure homes are safe.
On the weather front, there is drier air moving in, with cooler temperatures tonight mainly in the 50s. There is no chance of thunderstorms in the forecast.
Last night, there was another firefighter injury of burns to the hand. This is the second of this type of injury, and the sixth injury on this fire.
Preparing for repopulation:
Looking forward, the Madera County Sheriff’s Office would like to expedite the process for residents to gain access to their residences when the danger from the Railroad Fire has passed and repopulation occurs.
In light of this effort, MCSO will open the Oakhurst Substation for residents to come present documentation as proof they live in the evacuated area. Proof of residency could include Driver’s License, Vehicle Registration, or Utility Bill.
The Sheriff’s Office will provide residents with a pass for entry. This will expedite access when re-population occurs, as well as assist with the flow of in/out traffic during the first 24 hours of re-population.
This action serves to simplify the process and maintain order when people are allowed to return home safely.
The hours of the Oakhurst Substation, located at 48267 Liberty Drive, are listed below.
- Thursday, Sept. 7, from 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Thursday, Sept. 7 at the Railroad Community Meeting from 6 – 9 p.m.
- Friday, Sept. 8, from 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Saturday, Sept. 9, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m
The public closure in the the community of Fish Camp and the Tenaya Lodge will be lifted tomorrow. Highway 41 and the area is still closed to the public. Residents must enter from inside Yosemite National Park and show identification until the road opens on Saturday.
A mandatory evacuation order is in place for the entire Cedar Valley subdivision.
Highway 41 remains closed in both directions from Cedar Valley on the south (about three miles north of Oakhurst), to Yosemite National Park. Yosemite visitors should use Highway 49 to Highway 140 or 120 for entrance to the National Park.
Still under a mandatory evacuation are the Narrow Gauge Inn, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, the community of Sugar Pine including the Christian Camp, Cedar Valley, Sky Ranch, Big Sandy and Summerdale campgrounds, Nelder Grove, Camp Redwood, Paradise Springs, Calvin Crest, ECCO Conference Center, and Soquel and Texas Flat campgrounds.
Road 620 (Bissett Station) has been given an evacuation advisory due to the spot fire just north toward Miami Motorcycle Trails.
Forest Road Closures:
- Road 632 (Sky Ranch)
- Forest Road 6S07 (Jackson Road) to Beasore
- Forest Road 5S10 at 5S39
- Forest Road 6S13 at Road 274
- Forest Road 6S08 at 6S36
- Forest Road 6S10 at 6S39
- Forest Road 6S99 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40X at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 5S40Y at Beasore Road
- Worman Road one mile in from Highway 49 (at Road 601).
The Central California Animal Disaster Team (CCADT) has activated a small animal shelter at the Oakhurst Community Center Pavilion Building, and are currently house 47 pets. Large animals can be sheltered at the Coarsegold Rodeo Grounds, at 44777 Rodeo Grounds Lane in Coarsegold. The phone number is 559-676-7864.
For animal evacuations, please call the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (559) 675-7770 to request help. CCADT will be working with Madera County Animal Control to help with evacs if needed
The hot line number for the Red Cross is 559-343-2549.
All roads past Wawona inside Yosemite are open, including Glacier Point Road, which had been closed since Aug. 27 due to increased fire activity on the Empire Fire. Expect smoky conditions.
For fire updates, residents and visitors can message RAILROADFIRE (one word) to 888777.
A fire information line has been established for the Railroad Fire at 559-373-0040.
The Railroad Fire was reported at 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, just south of the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad on the west side of Highway 41. It is burning on the Bass Lake Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Big Increase In Containment On The Railroad Fire
Posted by: gina clugston September 7, 2017 - 9:03 am
OAKHURST — There was no infrared flight information for the Railroad Fire overnight, so it is still being reported at 11,603 acres with 43 percent containment.
However, a look at the briefing map from this morning (above) shows a lot more black (containment) line than on yesterday’s map, after 24 hours of good progress on the fireline. We will watch for updated numbers later today, as the Public Information Office says the containment estimate is indeed higher.
The east flank, a short section on the west, and the spot fire (Division Z) are now showing on the map as uncontrolled fire line, along with a short section on the ridge to the east of Cedar Valley. That line on the ridge continues to send smoke down the Lewis Creek drainage, causing visibility issues in the morning hours.
There are currently 962 personnel assigned to the incident including 95 engines, 16 hand crews, 14 dozers and 8 helicopters, with more resources having arrived overnight.
There will be two Type 1 and six Type 2 helicopters over the fire today.
The number of structures lost has been updated to 17. Six injuries have been reported.
Crews made good progress on the spot fire north of Road 620 (Bissett Station) overnight. The day shift will continue to strengthen lines and start mop-up where possible. The issue of hazard trees is an ongoing concern for firefighter safety.
The line along the west flank, up into Fish Camp and across the northern perimeter is quiet, holding well with no issues reported.
On the northeast corner, crews continue to secure and improve lines, and completed firing operations about 9:30 last night.
The east flank out toward Grouse Meadow made a push yesterday around 4 p.m., and a Hot Shot crew and a couple engines moved in and got to work. More resources will be committed to this part of the fire as things cool down over on the west and north.
Up near Calvin Crest, everything looked good overnight. The fire is holding in the California Creek drainage. About 10:30 last night, the temperature dropped to about 49 degrees and humidity came up, causing the fire to settle down and crews had a fairly quiet night.
Structure protection continues in the Cedar Valley area and along Sky Ranch Road.
The fire continues to back its way through Nelder Grove, and it will be interesting to see the results of fire activity that could not have been scripted any better for the health of the grove and the survival of the ancient trees.
Weather today will be dryer, no threat of any thunderstorms, sunny skies. cooler air, down a few degrees from yesterday, with temperatures expected in the 70s on the line and in the 80s in fire camp. Wind will be calm into the afternoon, when ridge winds will pick up slightly with some gusts up to 15 mph.
There will be a public meeting on the Railroad Fire on Thursday, Sept. 7, at the Mountain Christian Center (40299 Highway 49) in Oakhurst at 7 p.m. Fire officials will be on hand to answer any questions.
Once again, there are no indications as to when Highway 41 will be reopened, but we will be watching closely for any word from the Team and the Sheriff’s Office and post immediately when that happens.
Looking forward, the Madera County Sheriff’s Office would like to expedite the process for residents to gain access to their residences when the danger from the Railroad Fire has passed and re-population occurs.
In light of this effort, MCSO will open the Oakhurst Substation for residents to come present documentation as proof they live in the evacuated area. Proof of residency could include Driver’s License, Vehicle Registration, or Utility Bill.
The Sheriff’s Office will provide residents with a pass for entry. This will expedite access when re-population occurs, as well as assist with the flow of in/out traffic during the first 24 hours of re-population.
Please note that this is not an order for re-population. Information on re-population will be released as soon as it becomes available. This action serves to simplify the process and maintain order when people are allowed to return home safely.
The hours of the Oakhurst Substation, located at 48267 Liberty Drive, are listed below.
The mandatory evacuation for the the community of Fish Camp and the Tenaya Lodge has been lifted for residents only. Highway 41 and the area is still closed to the public. Residents must enter from inside Yosemite National Park and show identification.
A mandatory evacuation order is in place for the entire Cedar Valley subdivision.
Highway 41 remains closed in both directions from Cedar Valley on the south (about three miles north of Oakhurst), to Yosemite National Park. Yosemite visitors should use Highway 49 to Highway 140 or 120 for entrance to the National Park.
Still under a mandatory evacuation are the Narrow Gauge Inn, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, the community of Sugar Pine including the Christian Camp, Cedar Valley, Sky Ranch, Big Sandy and Summerdale campgrounds, Nelder Grove, Camp Redwood, Paradise Springs, Calvin Crest, ECCO Conference Center, and Soquel and Texas Flat campgrounds.
Road 620 (Bissett Station) has been given an evacuation advisory due to the spot fire just north toward Miami Motorcycle Trails.
Forest Road Closures:
The Central California Animal Disaster Team (CCADT) has activated a small animal shelter at the Oakhurst Community Center Pavilion Building, and are currently house 47 pets. Large animals can be sheltered at the Coarsegold Rodeo Grounds, at 44777 Rodeo Grounds Lane in Coarsegold. The phone number is 559-676-7864.
For animal evacuations, please call the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (559) 675-7770 to request help. CCADT will be working with Madera County Animal Control to help with evacs if needed
The hot line number for the Red Cross is 559-343-2549.
All roads past Wawona inside Yosemite are open, including Glacier Point Road, which had been closed since Aug. 27 due to increased fire activity on the Empire Fire. Expect smoky conditions.
For fire updates, residents and visitors can message RAILROADFIRE (one word) to 888777.
A fire information line has been established for the Railroad Fire at 559-373-0040.
The Railroad Fire was reported at 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, just south of the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad on the west side of Highway 41. It is burning on the Bass Lake Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
OAKHURST — There was no infrared flight information for the Railroad Fire overnight, so it is still being reported at 11,603 acres with 43 percent containment.
However, a look at the briefing map from this morning (above) shows a lot more black (containment) line than on yesterday’s map, after 24 hours of good progress on the fireline. We will watch for updated numbers later today, as the Public Information Office says the containment estimate is indeed higher.
The east flank, a short section on the west, and the spot fire (Division Z) are now showing on the map as uncontrolled fire line, along with a short section on the ridge to the east of Cedar Valley. That line on the ridge continues to send smoke down the Lewis Creek drainage, causing visibility issues in the morning hours.
There are currently 962 personnel assigned to the incident including 95 engines, 16 hand crews, 14 dozers and 8 helicopters, with more resources having arrived overnight.
There will be two Type 1 and six Type 2 helicopters over the fire today.
The number of structures lost has been updated to 17. Six injuries have been reported.
Crews made good progress on the spot fire north of Road 620 (Bissett Station) overnight. The day shift will continue to strengthen lines and start mop-up where possible. The issue of hazard trees is an ongoing concern for firefighter safety.
The line along the west flank, up into Fish Camp and across the northern perimeter is quiet, holding well with no issues reported.
On the northeast corner, crews continue to secure and improve lines, and completed firing operations about 9:30 last night.
The east flank out toward Grouse Meadow made a push yesterday around 4 p.m., and a Hot Shot crew and a couple engines moved in and got to work. More resources will be committed to this part of the fire as things cool down over on the west and north.
Up near Calvin Crest, everything looked good overnight. The fire is holding in the California Creek drainage. About 10:30 last night, the temperature dropped to about 49 degrees and humidity came up, causing the fire to settle down and crews had a fairly quiet night.
Structure protection continues in the Cedar Valley area and along Sky Ranch Road.
The fire continues to back its way through Nelder Grove, and it will be interesting to see the results of fire activity that could not have been scripted any better for the health of the grove and the survival of the ancient trees.
Weather today will be dryer, no threat of any thunderstorms, sunny skies. cooler air, down a few degrees from yesterday, with temperatures expected in the 70s on the line and in the 80s in fire camp. Wind will be calm into the afternoon, when ridge winds will pick up slightly with some gusts up to 15 mph.
There will be a public meeting on the Railroad Fire on Thursday, Sept. 7, at the Mountain Christian Center (40299 Highway 49) in Oakhurst at 7 p.m. Fire officials will be on hand to answer any questions.
Once again, there are no indications as to when Highway 41 will be reopened, but we will be watching closely for any word from the Team and the Sheriff’s Office and post immediately when that happens.
Looking forward, the Madera County Sheriff’s Office would like to expedite the process for residents to gain access to their residences when the danger from the Railroad Fire has passed and re-population occurs.
In light of this effort, MCSO will open the Oakhurst Substation for residents to come present documentation as proof they live in the evacuated area. Proof of residency could include Driver’s License, Vehicle Registration, or Utility Bill.
The Sheriff’s Office will provide residents with a pass for entry. This will expedite access when re-population occurs, as well as assist with the flow of in/out traffic during the first 24 hours of re-population.
Please note that this is not an order for re-population. Information on re-population will be released as soon as it becomes available. This action serves to simplify the process and maintain order when people are allowed to return home safely.
The hours of the Oakhurst Substation, located at 48267 Liberty Drive, are listed below.
- Thursday, Sept. 7, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Thursday, Sept. 7 at the Railroad Community Meeting from 6 – 9 p.m.
- Friday, Sept. 8, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Saturday, Sept. 9 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The mandatory evacuation for the the community of Fish Camp and the Tenaya Lodge has been lifted for residents only. Highway 41 and the area is still closed to the public. Residents must enter from inside Yosemite National Park and show identification.
A mandatory evacuation order is in place for the entire Cedar Valley subdivision.
Highway 41 remains closed in both directions from Cedar Valley on the south (about three miles north of Oakhurst), to Yosemite National Park. Yosemite visitors should use Highway 49 to Highway 140 or 120 for entrance to the National Park.
Still under a mandatory evacuation are the Narrow Gauge Inn, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, the community of Sugar Pine including the Christian Camp, Cedar Valley, Sky Ranch, Big Sandy and Summerdale campgrounds, Nelder Grove, Camp Redwood, Paradise Springs, Calvin Crest, ECCO Conference Center, and Soquel and Texas Flat campgrounds.
Road 620 (Bissett Station) has been given an evacuation advisory due to the spot fire just north toward Miami Motorcycle Trails.
Forest Road Closures:
- Road 632 (Sky Ranch)
- Forest Road 6S07 (Jackson Road) to Beasore
- Forest Road 5S10 at 5S39
- Forest Road 6S13 at Road 274
- Forest Road 6S08 at 6S36
- Forest Road 6S10 at 6S39
- Forest Road 6S99 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40X at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 5S40Y at Beasore Road
- Worman Road one mile in from Highway 49 (at Road 601).
The Central California Animal Disaster Team (CCADT) has activated a small animal shelter at the Oakhurst Community Center Pavilion Building, and are currently house 47 pets. Large animals can be sheltered at the Coarsegold Rodeo Grounds, at 44777 Rodeo Grounds Lane in Coarsegold. The phone number is 559-676-7864.
For animal evacuations, please call the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (559) 675-7770 to request help. CCADT will be working with Madera County Animal Control to help with evacs if needed
The hot line number for the Red Cross is 559-343-2549.
All roads past Wawona inside Yosemite are open, including Glacier Point Road, which had been closed since Aug. 27 due to increased fire activity on the Empire Fire. Expect smoky conditions.
For fire updates, residents and visitors can message RAILROADFIRE (one word) to 888777.
A fire information line has been established for the Railroad Fire at 559-373-0040.
The Railroad Fire was reported at 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, just south of the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad on the west side of Highway 41. It is burning on the Bass Lake Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Yosemite Fire Update September 7th, 2017
There are multiple fires burning in Yosemite National Park's wilderness. An upper level low pressure will reside off the central California coast through Friday brining slightly cooler temperatures. Humidities will trend slightly lower by Friday.
Railroad fire is 11,603 acres and 43% contained with 872 personnel. There will be a public meeting tonight,Thursday September 7 at the Mountain Christian Center 40299 Highway 49, Oakhurst at 7 pm. Fire officials will be on hand to answer any questions.Some residents in Fish camp were allowed to return to their homes. All other evacuations remain in place. Highway 41 remains closed between Fish Camp to Sky Ranch Road . Hazard tree clearing will continue along Highway 41. To access Yosemite National Park use Highway 49 to the 140 through El Portal or the 120 from Big Oak Flat Entrance.
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,640 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness through scattered pockets of dense fuel and the south flank backing into the South Fork of the Merced. There was an increase in acreage due to more accurate mapping. An upper level low pressure will reside off the central California coast through Friday brining slightly cooler temperatures. Humidities will trend slightly lower by Friday.
The northern spot fire remains south of handline at Turner meadow, crews brought fire down to Chilnualna Creek to secure the spot fire with the main fire. Patrols continue along portions of the fire closest to Wawona. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds due to the storms. Bucket work may be continued on the southern boundary of the fire. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and secured with hose lays and handlines. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness, and will be monitored by aircraft due to steep and rugged terrain. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk.
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 5,637 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday. Acreage has increased due to more accurate mapping. Glacier Point Road is open. Signage and traffic control will be in place to mitigate smoke and other hazards on the road; there is a potential for implementing temporary road closures or single lane convoys from Bridalveil Camp Ground to Mono Meadow trailhead. An upper level low pressure will reside off the central California coast through Friday brining slightly cooler temperatures. Humidities will trend slightly lower by Friday.
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. The north end of the fire is in monitor status, the west and south flanks of the fire are contained and holding. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. Fire management personnel are implementing this strategy on three sides of the fire to minimize further smoke production in heavy fuels. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem
Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 58 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Smoke may be visible from high elevation viewpoints.
Yosemite Creek
Discovered: 8/3/17
Location: N 37° 50.414' x W 119° 38.088' at approximately 7,970 feet elevation
Size: 2.3 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Porcupine
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 49.336' x W 119° 34.720' at approximately 8154 feet elevation off Tioga road near Yosemite Creek Campground road, creeping and smoldering, burning in large logs which are creating smoke.
Size: 3.3 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Lodgepole/Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Knob 91
Discovered: 8/4/17
Location 37° 52.185' x W 119° 35.217' at approximately 8980 feet elevation
Size: .39 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Timber litter Strategy: Monitor
Dispersion will continue to improve today. However,southerly/southwesterly winds are still bringing smoke directly into Yosemite Valley, Wawona, Yosemite West, and Foresta from the Railroad Fire, and to a lesser extent from the Empire and South Fork fires. Fire Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities. Community members who are sensitive to smoke may want to close their windows and doors, limit outdoor activity, and monitor the air quality forecast linked below for changes to the forecasted patterns.
No new map updates today.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/aqmonitoring.htm
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
Railroad fire is 11,603 acres and 43% contained with 872 personnel. There will be a public meeting tonight,Thursday September 7 at the Mountain Christian Center 40299 Highway 49, Oakhurst at 7 pm. Fire officials will be on hand to answer any questions.Some residents in Fish camp were allowed to return to their homes. All other evacuations remain in place. Highway 41 remains closed between Fish Camp to Sky Ranch Road . Hazard tree clearing will continue along Highway 41. To access Yosemite National Park use Highway 49 to the 140 through El Portal or the 120 from Big Oak Flat Entrance.
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,640 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness through scattered pockets of dense fuel and the south flank backing into the South Fork of the Merced. There was an increase in acreage due to more accurate mapping. An upper level low pressure will reside off the central California coast through Friday brining slightly cooler temperatures. Humidities will trend slightly lower by Friday.
The northern spot fire remains south of handline at Turner meadow, crews brought fire down to Chilnualna Creek to secure the spot fire with the main fire. Patrols continue along portions of the fire closest to Wawona. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds due to the storms. Bucket work may be continued on the southern boundary of the fire. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and secured with hose lays and handlines. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness, and will be monitored by aircraft due to steep and rugged terrain. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk.
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 5,637 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday. Acreage has increased due to more accurate mapping. Glacier Point Road is open. Signage and traffic control will be in place to mitigate smoke and other hazards on the road; there is a potential for implementing temporary road closures or single lane convoys from Bridalveil Camp Ground to Mono Meadow trailhead. An upper level low pressure will reside off the central California coast through Friday brining slightly cooler temperatures. Humidities will trend slightly lower by Friday.
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. The north end of the fire is in monitor status, the west and south flanks of the fire are contained and holding. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. Fire management personnel are implementing this strategy on three sides of the fire to minimize further smoke production in heavy fuels. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem
Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 58 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Smoke may be visible from high elevation viewpoints.
Yosemite Creek
Discovered: 8/3/17
Location: N 37° 50.414' x W 119° 38.088' at approximately 7,970 feet elevation
Size: 2.3 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Porcupine
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 49.336' x W 119° 34.720' at approximately 8154 feet elevation off Tioga road near Yosemite Creek Campground road, creeping and smoldering, burning in large logs which are creating smoke.
Size: 3.3 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Lodgepole/Red fir Strategy: Monitor
Knob 91
Discovered: 8/4/17
Location 37° 52.185' x W 119° 35.217' at approximately 8980 feet elevation
Size: .39 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low
Fuels: Timber litter Strategy: Monitor
Dispersion will continue to improve today. However,southerly/southwesterly winds are still bringing smoke directly into Yosemite Valley, Wawona, Yosemite West, and Foresta from the Railroad Fire, and to a lesser extent from the Empire and South Fork fires. Fire Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities. Community members who are sensitive to smoke may want to close their windows and doors, limit outdoor activity, and monitor the air quality forecast linked below for changes to the forecasted patterns.
No new map updates today.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/aqmonitoring.htm
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
Good Progress On The Railroad Fire, Minimal Growth, Less Smoke, 43% Contained
Posted by: gina clugston September 6, 2017 - 9:29 pm
OAKHURST – Residents and firefighters got a bit of a break from the dense smoke today, and there were actually blue skies over the area this afternoon near the Railroad Fire.
The fire grew by only 75 acres since this morning, and is now estimated at 11,603 acres with 43 percent containment.
There are currently 962 personnel assigned to the incident including 89 engines, 14 hand crews and 14 dozers. More resources arrived today.
No more structures have been reported lost; the number still stands at 14.
The wind stayed in firefighters’ favor all day, allowing them to get a lot of hard work done without chasing new problems.
The biggest concern in recent days, other than the protection of the communities and camps in the Cedar Valley/ Sky Ranch area, has been the spot fire burning just north of Road 620 (Bissett Station). It is now estimated at 673 acres, and continues to challenge firefighters with limited access and dangerous snags.
The spot fire has been assigned its own division as of night shift tonight — Division Zulu. It will be top priority for crews in that section of the fire overnight – to get it corralled. The constant danger of dead trees means firefighters can’t get too far into the burn area, but will continue to strengthen lines and patrol along Miami Creek, while dozers tie everything together up on the 6S24 road.
The line cut in by dozers over the past 48 hours was not direct line (was not right next to the active fire) so firefighters have been allowing it to burn itself out to the dozer line on its own. That has been happening fairly slowly, and there was not a lot of big fire activity reported in the new Division Z today.
Along Lewis Creek, the fire slopped over the trail, but that’s pretty close to the creek, and everything held on the east side, as crews were able to pick up those spots.
The mantra of this fire – and all fires in the central Sierra this year – has been “snags,” and the Lewis Creek area is no different. Night crews will be patrolling the line, which has hose lay in, and steering clear of the danger zones.
The dozer line from Calvin Crest to Cedar Valley is just about tied in, and it is expected that will be finished tonight.
The fire is backing down into California Creek in Nelder Grove at a slow rate of spread. Crews are keeping that in check.
With more resources arriving at camp, fire managers are formulating the plan of attack for the east flank, which, until now, has not had much attention other than dozer lines put in place several days ago. Today at about 4 p.m., that section of the fire livened up a bit and made a run toward Grouse Meadow, passing through the dozer lines in some places. With reinforcements having arrived, the east flank will have boots on the ground.
Crews are making steady progress in the Big Sandy area and north, with no major issues, and the north and west of the fire have been pretty quiet.
Temperatures will drop into the 50s for most of the fire area tonight, with clear skies and about 70 percent humidity recovery. No wind issues are expected.
Just before 2 p.m. today, reports came in of a head injury to a tree faller when he was hit by a falling branch. He was reported to be conscious and alert, and was transported from the Nelder Grove area for medical treatment.
PG&E, Caltrans and other contractors continue their work inside the burn area along Highway 41. There is still no estimated time to reopen the roadway.
Closures and evacuations on the Railroad Fire (in addition to Sky Ranch):
The mandatory evacuation for the the community of Fish Camp and the Tenaya Lodge has been lifted for residents only. Highway 41 and the area is still closed to the public. Residents must enter from inside Yosemite National Park and show identification.
A mandatory evacuation order is in place for the entire Cedar Valley subdivision.
Highway 41 remains closed in both directions from Cedar Valley on the south (about three miles north of Oakhurst), to Yosemite National Park. Yosemite visitors should use Highway 49 to Highway 140 or 120 for entrance to the National Park.
Still under a mandatory evacuation are the Narrow Gauge Inn, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, the community of Sugar Pine including the Christian Camp, Cedar Valley, Sky Ranch, Big Sandy and Summerdale campgrounds, Nelder Grove, Camp Redwood, Paradise Springs, Calvin Crest, ECCO Conference Center, and Soquel and Texas Flat campgrounds.
Road 620 (Bissett Station) has been given an evacuation advisory due to the spot fire just north toward Miami Motorcycle Trails.
Forest Road Closures:
The Central California Animal Disaster Team (CCADT) has activated a small animal shelter at the Oakhurst Community Center Pavilion Building, and are currently house 47 pets. Large animals can be sheltered at the Coarsegold Rodeo Grounds, at 44777 Rodeo Grounds Lane in Coarsegold. The phone number is 559-676-7864.
For animal evacuations, please call the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (559) 675-7770 to request help. CCADT will be working with Madera County Animal Control to help with evacs if needed
The hot line number for the Red Cross is 559-343-2549.
All roads past Wawona inside Yosemite are open, including Glacier Point Road, which had been closed since Aug. 27 due to increased fire activity on the Empire Fire. Expect smoky conditions.
For fire updates, residents and visitors can message RAILROADFIRE (one word) to 888777.
A fire information line has been established for the Railroad Fire at 559-373-0040.
The Railroad Fire was reported at 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, just south of the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad on the west side of Highway 41. It is burning on the Bass Lake Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
OAKHURST – Residents and firefighters got a bit of a break from the dense smoke today, and there were actually blue skies over the area this afternoon near the Railroad Fire.
The fire grew by only 75 acres since this morning, and is now estimated at 11,603 acres with 43 percent containment.
There are currently 962 personnel assigned to the incident including 89 engines, 14 hand crews and 14 dozers. More resources arrived today.
No more structures have been reported lost; the number still stands at 14.
The wind stayed in firefighters’ favor all day, allowing them to get a lot of hard work done without chasing new problems.
The biggest concern in recent days, other than the protection of the communities and camps in the Cedar Valley/ Sky Ranch area, has been the spot fire burning just north of Road 620 (Bissett Station). It is now estimated at 673 acres, and continues to challenge firefighters with limited access and dangerous snags.
The spot fire has been assigned its own division as of night shift tonight — Division Zulu. It will be top priority for crews in that section of the fire overnight – to get it corralled. The constant danger of dead trees means firefighters can’t get too far into the burn area, but will continue to strengthen lines and patrol along Miami Creek, while dozers tie everything together up on the 6S24 road.
The line cut in by dozers over the past 48 hours was not direct line (was not right next to the active fire) so firefighters have been allowing it to burn itself out to the dozer line on its own. That has been happening fairly slowly, and there was not a lot of big fire activity reported in the new Division Z today.
Along Lewis Creek, the fire slopped over the trail, but that’s pretty close to the creek, and everything held on the east side, as crews were able to pick up those spots.
The mantra of this fire – and all fires in the central Sierra this year – has been “snags,” and the Lewis Creek area is no different. Night crews will be patrolling the line, which has hose lay in, and steering clear of the danger zones.
The dozer line from Calvin Crest to Cedar Valley is just about tied in, and it is expected that will be finished tonight.
The fire is backing down into California Creek in Nelder Grove at a slow rate of spread. Crews are keeping that in check.
With more resources arriving at camp, fire managers are formulating the plan of attack for the east flank, which, until now, has not had much attention other than dozer lines put in place several days ago. Today at about 4 p.m., that section of the fire livened up a bit and made a run toward Grouse Meadow, passing through the dozer lines in some places. With reinforcements having arrived, the east flank will have boots on the ground.
Crews are making steady progress in the Big Sandy area and north, with no major issues, and the north and west of the fire have been pretty quiet.
Temperatures will drop into the 50s for most of the fire area tonight, with clear skies and about 70 percent humidity recovery. No wind issues are expected.
Just before 2 p.m. today, reports came in of a head injury to a tree faller when he was hit by a falling branch. He was reported to be conscious and alert, and was transported from the Nelder Grove area for medical treatment.
PG&E, Caltrans and other contractors continue their work inside the burn area along Highway 41. There is still no estimated time to reopen the roadway.
Closures and evacuations on the Railroad Fire (in addition to Sky Ranch):
The mandatory evacuation for the the community of Fish Camp and the Tenaya Lodge has been lifted for residents only. Highway 41 and the area is still closed to the public. Residents must enter from inside Yosemite National Park and show identification.
A mandatory evacuation order is in place for the entire Cedar Valley subdivision.
Highway 41 remains closed in both directions from Cedar Valley on the south (about three miles north of Oakhurst), to Yosemite National Park. Yosemite visitors should use Highway 49 to Highway 140 or 120 for entrance to the National Park.
Still under a mandatory evacuation are the Narrow Gauge Inn, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, the community of Sugar Pine including the Christian Camp, Cedar Valley, Sky Ranch, Big Sandy and Summerdale campgrounds, Nelder Grove, Camp Redwood, Paradise Springs, Calvin Crest, ECCO Conference Center, and Soquel and Texas Flat campgrounds.
Road 620 (Bissett Station) has been given an evacuation advisory due to the spot fire just north toward Miami Motorcycle Trails.
Forest Road Closures:
- Road 632 (Sky Ranch)
- Forest Road 6S07 (Jackson Road) to Beasore
- Forest Road 5S10 at 5S39
- Forest Road 6S13 at Road 274
- Forest Road 6S08 at 6S36
- Forest Road 6S10 at 6S39
- Forest Road 6S99 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40X at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 5S40Y at Beasore Road
- Worman Road one mile in from Highway 49 (at Road 601).
The Central California Animal Disaster Team (CCADT) has activated a small animal shelter at the Oakhurst Community Center Pavilion Building, and are currently house 47 pets. Large animals can be sheltered at the Coarsegold Rodeo Grounds, at 44777 Rodeo Grounds Lane in Coarsegold. The phone number is 559-676-7864.
For animal evacuations, please call the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (559) 675-7770 to request help. CCADT will be working with Madera County Animal Control to help with evacs if needed
The hot line number for the Red Cross is 559-343-2549.
All roads past Wawona inside Yosemite are open, including Glacier Point Road, which had been closed since Aug. 27 due to increased fire activity on the Empire Fire. Expect smoky conditions.
For fire updates, residents and visitors can message RAILROADFIRE (one word) to 888777.
A fire information line has been established for the Railroad Fire at 559-373-0040.
The Railroad Fire was reported at 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, just south of the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad on the west side of Highway 41. It is burning on the Bass Lake Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Hundreds Turn Out at Funeral for Los Padres Forest Battalion Chief Gary Helming, Who Fought Railroad Fire
A procession for U.S. Forest Service fire Battalion Chief Gary Helming makes its way Wednesday through Nipomo towards Santa Maria, where a memorial service for him was held. Helming, of Pismo Beach, died in a collision on Highway 41 on Aug. 31 while returning from a fire near Yosemite National Park. (Joe Johnston / San Luis Obispo Tribune photo)
By Janene Scully, Noozhawk North County Editor | @JaneneScully | 6:32 p.m. | September 6, 2017
Three words exemplify U.S. Forest Service Battalion Chief Gary Helming’s leadership — selflessness, sacrifice and trust.
A friend of the fallen firefighter offered that assessment Wednesday during a funeral service in Orcutt to remember the man another colleague called "enormously respected."
Firefighters came from through California and beyond for the service held at the Pacific Christian Center, where Santa Maria and Santa Barbara County ladder trucks formed an arch to fly a giant American flag.
The 90-minute service included speeches from colleagues and friends, prompting laughter and tears.
Helming, 47, of Pismo Beach died Aug. 31 in a vehicle crash on Highway 41 in Kings County while returning from helping fight the Railroad Fire, near Fish Camp.
“He always put others first,” Division Chief Mark von Tillow said, adding that his friend was known for the sacrifces he made for the job and was trusted among peers for his skills.
Helming was assigned to the Los Padres National Forest’s Santa Lucia Ranger District, which includes northern Santa Barbara County and San Luis Obispo County.
“What I learned about Gary lets me know he had passion — he had a passion for his family, he had a passion for helping his fellow man, and a passion for public service,” said Tony Tooke, chief of the U.S. Forest Service in Washington, D.C.
Helming began working for the Forest Service 22 years ago as a seasonal firefighter.
He also worked for the Bureau of Land Management and the National Park Service before returning to the Forest Service in 2013.
“He was an outstanding employee. He was an outstanding firefighter. He was an outstanding public servant,” Tooke said.
The difficult job of firefighting can be laborious, repetitive, physically demanding and more, Tooke said.
“It takes a special type of person to serve as a wildland firefighter. Within the wildland firefighting community, Gary was enormously respected. He was respected for his professionalism, his experience,” Tooke said.
oberanes Fire in Monterey County last year, overseeing 4,000 firefighters, 405 engines, 67 bulldozers and dozens of aircraft.
"That's a lot of stuff. That's a lot of people and it's a lot of hazards," Baird said. "Gary weathered that extremely well. He was a leader that inspired people to come around him."
He called Helming the "consummate chief officer," especially focused on risk and firefighter safety.
"I’ll miss you Gary. We’ll all miss you. You were selfless, funny, sometimes sarcastic — often sarcastic — but you were always fun to be around,” Baird said.
“We’ll sorely miss him," Baird added.
The fallen firefighter's mother, Elizabeth Helming, said she knew her son would grow up to wear a uniform, but wasn’t certain which one.
“He chose the best one — that of a firefighter. He loved what he did,” she said.
Her grandson, Riley Helming, preceded her, standing on a box to confidently read a poem about dads on behalf of his siblings, twins Walker and Nalani.
“I will remember all he taught me, I’m hurt but won't be sad,” the boy read. “Because he'll send me down the answers. And he'll always be my dad.”
During the memorial, Helming's widow, Andrea, received a national flag and California flag that flew over Capitol.
Two statues, a foot-tall replica of the Wildland Firefighter Foundation’s Monument, were presented to family members with Riley clinging to one while walking out of the church.
The forest’s Santa Lucia Ranger District gave the family a plaque and district pulaski, or firefighting tool.
Later, an interagency honor guard conducted a last bell ceremony before the Los Padres Communications Center fire dispatcher made a final radio call repeatedly calling “Battalion 31,” Helming’s radio sign.
The dispatcher received only silence in response.
“This is the last call for fallen firefighter Gary Helming. We would like to thank you for your dedicated service and your continuous sacrifices made for the community. Los Padres Dispatch acknowledges fallen firefighter Gary Helming.
“Gary Helming, Battalion 31, is out of service. Godspeed and farewell.”
A GoFundMe page for the family has been set up and can be found by clicking here. The site has raised more than $79,000 in less than a week.
Cards and other condolences for the family can be sent to the Santa Lucia Ranger District, Attention: Helming Family, 1616 Carlotti Drive, Santa Maria, Calif., 93454.
Donations can be made to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation.
Three words exemplify U.S. Forest Service Battalion Chief Gary Helming’s leadership — selflessness, sacrifice and trust.
A friend of the fallen firefighter offered that assessment Wednesday during a funeral service in Orcutt to remember the man another colleague called "enormously respected."
Firefighters came from through California and beyond for the service held at the Pacific Christian Center, where Santa Maria and Santa Barbara County ladder trucks formed an arch to fly a giant American flag.
The 90-minute service included speeches from colleagues and friends, prompting laughter and tears.
Helming, 47, of Pismo Beach died Aug. 31 in a vehicle crash on Highway 41 in Kings County while returning from helping fight the Railroad Fire, near Fish Camp.
“He always put others first,” Division Chief Mark von Tillow said, adding that his friend was known for the sacrifces he made for the job and was trusted among peers for his skills.
Helming was assigned to the Los Padres National Forest’s Santa Lucia Ranger District, which includes northern Santa Barbara County and San Luis Obispo County.
“What I learned about Gary lets me know he had passion — he had a passion for his family, he had a passion for helping his fellow man, and a passion for public service,” said Tony Tooke, chief of the U.S. Forest Service in Washington, D.C.
Helming began working for the Forest Service 22 years ago as a seasonal firefighter.
He also worked for the Bureau of Land Management and the National Park Service before returning to the Forest Service in 2013.
“He was an outstanding employee. He was an outstanding firefighter. He was an outstanding public servant,” Tooke said.
The difficult job of firefighting can be laborious, repetitive, physically demanding and more, Tooke said.
“It takes a special type of person to serve as a wildland firefighter. Within the wildland firefighting community, Gary was enormously respected. He was respected for his professionalism, his experience,” Tooke said.
oberanes Fire in Monterey County last year, overseeing 4,000 firefighters, 405 engines, 67 bulldozers and dozens of aircraft.
"That's a lot of stuff. That's a lot of people and it's a lot of hazards," Baird said. "Gary weathered that extremely well. He was a leader that inspired people to come around him."
He called Helming the "consummate chief officer," especially focused on risk and firefighter safety.
"I’ll miss you Gary. We’ll all miss you. You were selfless, funny, sometimes sarcastic — often sarcastic — but you were always fun to be around,” Baird said.
“We’ll sorely miss him," Baird added.
The fallen firefighter's mother, Elizabeth Helming, said she knew her son would grow up to wear a uniform, but wasn’t certain which one.
“He chose the best one — that of a firefighter. He loved what he did,” she said.
Her grandson, Riley Helming, preceded her, standing on a box to confidently read a poem about dads on behalf of his siblings, twins Walker and Nalani.
“I will remember all he taught me, I’m hurt but won't be sad,” the boy read. “Because he'll send me down the answers. And he'll always be my dad.”
During the memorial, Helming's widow, Andrea, received a national flag and California flag that flew over Capitol.
Two statues, a foot-tall replica of the Wildland Firefighter Foundation’s Monument, were presented to family members with Riley clinging to one while walking out of the church.
The forest’s Santa Lucia Ranger District gave the family a plaque and district pulaski, or firefighting tool.
Later, an interagency honor guard conducted a last bell ceremony before the Los Padres Communications Center fire dispatcher made a final radio call repeatedly calling “Battalion 31,” Helming’s radio sign.
The dispatcher received only silence in response.
“This is the last call for fallen firefighter Gary Helming. We would like to thank you for your dedicated service and your continuous sacrifices made for the community. Los Padres Dispatch acknowledges fallen firefighter Gary Helming.
“Gary Helming, Battalion 31, is out of service. Godspeed and farewell.”
A GoFundMe page for the family has been set up and can be found by clicking here. The site has raised more than $79,000 in less than a week.
Cards and other condolences for the family can be sent to the Santa Lucia Ranger District, Attention: Helming Family, 1616 Carlotti Drive, Santa Maria, Calif., 93454.
Donations can be made to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation.
Railroad Fire at 35% containment, evac orders remain in place
SEPTEMBER 06, 2017 8:21 AM
Fire officials will hold a public meeting to provide Railroad Fire updates and answer questions, 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 7 at the Mountain Christian Center (40299 Highway 49) in Oakhurst.
As of Wednesday, Sept. 6, the Railroad Fire showed minimal fire growth overnight and is now at 35% containment, having burned 11,528 acres.
The west side of the fire remains stable with crews patrolling and mopping up, while the east side continues to spread slowly through Big Sandy and Nelder Grove.
Containment increased yesterday as crews worked to extinguish hot spots along the perimeter of the fire on the west and north flanks, holding on the north side at Rainier Creek. The fire remained active until after dark when increased humidity recovery slowed fire spread. Burning operations intended to improve the defense of the communities of Sugar Pine and Cedar Valley continued successfully.
These activities will continue on the west side of Cedar Valley to bring the fire down to Lewis Creek. Bulldozers are creating a fire break on the northeast side of the fire around Big Sandy and above Speckerman Mountain.
Tree mortality continues to increase safety risk for fire personnel and medium range spotting is challenging constructed control lines slowing containment.
The hope is that lower temperatures and higher humidity levels will assist firefighters in slowing fire spread and spotting. However, wet or dry thunderstorms with lightning and strong outflow winds are still a possibility within the fire area today.
Caltrans will continue to clear hazard trees along Highway 4 for the next several days to ensure safety for travelers into Fish Camp and Yosemite National Park. PG&E will be working on electric poles to restore power within the burned area.
Highway 41 remains closed in both directions from south of Wawona to Sky Ranch Road. Yosemite visitors should use Highway 49. The Summerdale, Big Sandy, and Nelder Grove Campgrounds on the Sierra National Forest are closed. Sky Ranch Road is closed, as are roads between Beasore Road and Sky Ranch Road.
Resources include 14 hand crews, 6 helicopters, 89 engines, 14 dozers. Air tankers have been ordered and will support the fire as available.
The Railroad Fire began more than a week ago, on Aug. 29, along Highway 41 between Sugar Pine and Fish Camp.
Current evacuation orders include Tenaya Lodge Resort, Sugar Pine, Calvin Crest, Paradise Springs, Cedar Valley and Sky Ranch. About 47 have utilized the two Red Cross shelters in Oakhurst - one at the Oakhurst Community Center and the other at the Sierra Vista Presbyterian Church.
Some residents in Fish Camp were allowed to return to their homes yesterday, but had enter via Wawona. All other evacuations remain in place.
Resources assigned to the fire include 14 hand crews, 7 helicopters, 89 engines, 14 dozers. Air support remains a critical part of the firefighting effort and will support ground crews as conditions allow.
Fire officials will hold a public meeting to provide Railroad Fire updates and answer questions, 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 7 at the Mountain Christian Center (40299 Highway 49) in Oakhurst.
As of Wednesday, Sept. 6, the Railroad Fire showed minimal fire growth overnight and is now at 35% containment, having burned 11,528 acres.
The west side of the fire remains stable with crews patrolling and mopping up, while the east side continues to spread slowly through Big Sandy and Nelder Grove.
Containment increased yesterday as crews worked to extinguish hot spots along the perimeter of the fire on the west and north flanks, holding on the north side at Rainier Creek. The fire remained active until after dark when increased humidity recovery slowed fire spread. Burning operations intended to improve the defense of the communities of Sugar Pine and Cedar Valley continued successfully.
These activities will continue on the west side of Cedar Valley to bring the fire down to Lewis Creek. Bulldozers are creating a fire break on the northeast side of the fire around Big Sandy and above Speckerman Mountain.
Tree mortality continues to increase safety risk for fire personnel and medium range spotting is challenging constructed control lines slowing containment.
The hope is that lower temperatures and higher humidity levels will assist firefighters in slowing fire spread and spotting. However, wet or dry thunderstorms with lightning and strong outflow winds are still a possibility within the fire area today.
Caltrans will continue to clear hazard trees along Highway 4 for the next several days to ensure safety for travelers into Fish Camp and Yosemite National Park. PG&E will be working on electric poles to restore power within the burned area.
Highway 41 remains closed in both directions from south of Wawona to Sky Ranch Road. Yosemite visitors should use Highway 49. The Summerdale, Big Sandy, and Nelder Grove Campgrounds on the Sierra National Forest are closed. Sky Ranch Road is closed, as are roads between Beasore Road and Sky Ranch Road.
Resources include 14 hand crews, 6 helicopters, 89 engines, 14 dozers. Air tankers have been ordered and will support the fire as available.
The Railroad Fire began more than a week ago, on Aug. 29, along Highway 41 between Sugar Pine and Fish Camp.
Current evacuation orders include Tenaya Lodge Resort, Sugar Pine, Calvin Crest, Paradise Springs, Cedar Valley and Sky Ranch. About 47 have utilized the two Red Cross shelters in Oakhurst - one at the Oakhurst Community Center and the other at the Sierra Vista Presbyterian Church.
Some residents in Fish Camp were allowed to return to their homes yesterday, but had enter via Wawona. All other evacuations remain in place.
Resources assigned to the fire include 14 hand crews, 7 helicopters, 89 engines, 14 dozers. Air support remains a critical part of the firefighting effort and will support ground crews as conditions allow.
Golf Tournament and Large Item Pickup Canceled
The large item pickup in Wawona scheduled for Saturday, September 9 has been canceled and will be re-scheduled at a later date. The school golf tournament is also canceled. |
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Yosemite Fire Update September 6th, 2017
There are multiple fires burning in Yosemite National Park's wilderness. A high pressure system continues to weaken over the area bringing cooler temperatures today and higher relative humidity some cloud cover will limit smoke dispersion. Thunderstorms are possible this afternoon into the early evening. Thunderstorms produce gusty and erratic winds.
Railroad fire is 11,528 acres and 35% contained with 872 personnel. There will be a public meeting on Thursday September 7 at the Mountain Christian Center 40299 Highway 49, Oakhurst at 7 pm. Fire officials will be on hand to answer any questions.Some residents in Fish camp were allowed to return to their homes yesterday. All other evacuations remain in place. Highway 41 remains closed between Fish Camp to Sky Ranch Road . Hazard tree clearing will continue along Highway 41. To access Yosemite National Park use Highway 49 to the 140 through El Portal or the 120 from Big Oak Flat Entrance.
For more information go to Inciweb:https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5553/
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 7,580 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness through scattered pockets of dense fuel and the south flank backing into the South Fork of the Merced. There was an increase in acreage due to more accurate mapping. Thunderstorms are predicted this afternoon with slightly cooler temperatures and higher relative humidities, producing gusty and erratic winds.
The northern spot fire remains south of handline at Turner meadow, crews brought fire down to Chilnualna Creek to secure the spot fire with the main fire. Patrols continue along portions of the fire closest to Wawona. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds due to the storms. Bucket work may be continued on the southern boundary of the fire. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and secured with hose lays and handlines. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness, and will be monitored by aircraft due to steep and rugged terrain. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk.
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 5,100 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday. Acreage has increased due to more accurate mapping. Glacier Point Road is scheduled to reopen on Tuesday, September 5, 2017, if favorable conditioned continue. Signage and traffic control will be in place to mitigate smoke and other hazards on the road; there is a potential for implementing temporary road closures or single lane convoys from Bridalveil Camp Ground to Mono Meadow trailhead depending. Weather forecast for today predicts possible thunderstorms over the wildfire location, which could bring gusty and erratic winds. A cooling trend with increased relative humidity is expected over the next 24 to 48 hours.
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. The north, west and south flanks of the fire are contained and holding. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. Fire management personnel are implementing this strategy on three sides of the fire to minimize further smoke production in heavy fuels. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem
Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
Smoke dispersion will improve today, with more direct southerly winds. These southerly winds will bring smoke from the Railroad Fire directly into Yosemite National Park. Air quality will remain poor close to the fire especially in valleys and drainages north of the fire. Fire Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities. Community members who are sensitive to smoke may want to close their windows and doors, limit outdoor activity, and monitor the air quality forecast linked below for changes to the forecasted patterns.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/aqmonitorin
Railroad fire is 11,528 acres and 35% contained with 872 personnel. There will be a public meeting on Thursday September 7 at the Mountain Christian Center 40299 Highway 49, Oakhurst at 7 pm. Fire officials will be on hand to answer any questions.Some residents in Fish camp were allowed to return to their homes yesterday. All other evacuations remain in place. Highway 41 remains closed between Fish Camp to Sky Ranch Road . Hazard tree clearing will continue along Highway 41. To access Yosemite National Park use Highway 49 to the 140 through El Portal or the 120 from Big Oak Flat Entrance.
For more information go to Inciweb:https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5553/
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 7,580 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness through scattered pockets of dense fuel and the south flank backing into the South Fork of the Merced. There was an increase in acreage due to more accurate mapping. Thunderstorms are predicted this afternoon with slightly cooler temperatures and higher relative humidities, producing gusty and erratic winds.
The northern spot fire remains south of handline at Turner meadow, crews brought fire down to Chilnualna Creek to secure the spot fire with the main fire. Patrols continue along portions of the fire closest to Wawona. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds due to the storms. Bucket work may be continued on the southern boundary of the fire. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and secured with hose lays and handlines. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness, and will be monitored by aircraft due to steep and rugged terrain. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk.
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 5,100 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday. Acreage has increased due to more accurate mapping. Glacier Point Road is scheduled to reopen on Tuesday, September 5, 2017, if favorable conditioned continue. Signage and traffic control will be in place to mitigate smoke and other hazards on the road; there is a potential for implementing temporary road closures or single lane convoys from Bridalveil Camp Ground to Mono Meadow trailhead depending. Weather forecast for today predicts possible thunderstorms over the wildfire location, which could bring gusty and erratic winds. A cooling trend with increased relative humidity is expected over the next 24 to 48 hours.
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. The north, west and south flanks of the fire are contained and holding. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. Fire management personnel are implementing this strategy on three sides of the fire to minimize further smoke production in heavy fuels. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem
Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
Smoke dispersion will improve today, with more direct southerly winds. These southerly winds will bring smoke from the Railroad Fire directly into Yosemite National Park. Air quality will remain poor close to the fire especially in valleys and drainages north of the fire. Fire Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities. Community members who are sensitive to smoke may want to close their windows and doors, limit outdoor activity, and monitor the air quality forecast linked below for changes to the forecasted patterns.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/aqmonitorin
Firefighters Still Keeping Railroad Fire Out Of Cedar Valley
Posted by: gina clugston September 6, 2017 - 8:30 am
OAKHURST — Firefighters had a very productive night on the Railroad Fire, adding another 5 percent to the fireline that can now be call contained.
The fire is now estimated at 11,528 acres with 35 percent containment.
There are currently 872 personnel assigned to the incident including 89 engines, 14 hand crews and 14 dozers.
No more structures have been lost; the number still stands at 14.
Fish Camp will be re-energized this morning at 9 a.m. After more than a week without power, an important note is that the Mariposa County Department of Public Works is is providing a free Food Waste Drop on Thursday, Sept. 7 from 9:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m. at the Old Chevron Station.
Crews held the line up near Rainier Creek off Jackson Road on the north, and on the northeast corner, they burned inside the dozer line about 1/4 of the way down to Big Sandy. The day shift will complete that job.
In Cedar Valley, the fire moved down a bit with the 3 a.m. down-canyon winds, but crews were there to keep it in check, and no structures were lost or damaged. The line around Cedar Valley is now plumbed with hose lay, and is holding well.
On Lewis Creek, the fire has backed all the way down to the creek, and that line is also plumbed.
The spot fire on the southwest continues to give firefighters a hard time, but they got a lot of work done in there overnight. Dozers were able to get a line off the OHV trail on top, and almost all the way to the bottom on the east side. Operations anticipates that line to be tied in by mid-morning.
On the southeast corner of the spot fire, a strike team of engines worked all night and kept it from crossing Miami Creek. Crews did some firing along the 6S24 road to remove fuels inside the line.
Today, crews will be working to secure the lines on the west flank, strengthen and improve lines around Sugar Pine, Calvin Crest and the nearby camps, and continue burning operations toward Cedar Valley along Lewis Creek.
There were a lot of aircraft over the fire yesterday afternoon, and Air Ops expects the same today. Air Attack has been able to get up over the fire typically around 9 a.m.. There are two VLATS on order, along with four heavies.
The fire gained one Type 1 helicopter that will be over the fire early this afternoon, for a total of two Type 1s and six Type 2s. Crews were advised to be aware that with the larger helicopters they’re going from a couple hundred gallons on a drop, to about a thousand, posing added danger as that much weight falls onto dead and burned trees.
The moisture that has helped out so much with this fire is now beginning to move east. There is a slight change of thunderstorms today, mainly over the crest of the Sierra. Firefighters will be working in temperatures in the upper 70s to mid 80s on the fireline today, with humidity recovery between 30 and 40 percent.
There is still no word on when Highway 41 will reopen and when evacuations will be lifted.
(Fire map at the bottom of this article).
Closures and evacuations on the Railroad Fire (in addition to Sky Ranch):
The mandatory evacuation for the the community of Fish Camp and the Tenaya Lodge has been lifted for residents only. Highway 41 and the area is still closed to the public. Residents must enter from inside Yosemite National Park and show identification.
A mandatory evacuation order is in place for the entire Cedar Valley subdivision.
Highway 41 remains closed in both directions from Cedar Valley on the south (about three miles north of Oakhurst), to Yosemite National Park. Yosemite visitors should use Highway 49 to Highway 140 or 120 for entrance to the National Park.
Still under a mandatory evacuation are the Narrow Gauge Inn, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, the community of Sugar Pine including the Christian Camp, Cedar Valley, Sky Ranch, Big Sandy and Summerdale campgrounds, Nelder Grove, Camp Redwood, Paradise Springs, Calvin Crest, ECCO Conference Center, and Soquel and Texas Flat campgrounds.
Road 620 (Bissett Station) has been given an evacuation advisory due to the spot fire just north toward Miami Motorcycle Trails.
Forest Road Closures:
- Road 632 (Sky Ranch)
- Forest Road 6S07 (Jackson Road) to Beasore
- Forest Road 5S10 at 5S39
- Forest Road 6S13 at Road 274
- Forest Road 6S08 at 6S36
- Forest Road 6S10 at 6S39
- Forest Road 6S99 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40X at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 5S40Y at Beasore Road
- Worman Road one mile in from Highway 49 (at Road 601).
The Central California Animal Disaster Team (CCADT) has activated a small animal shelter at the Oakhurst Community Center Pavilion Building. Large animals can be sheltered at the Coarsegold Rodeo Grounds, at 44777 Rodeo Grounds Lane in Coarsegold. The phone number is 559-676-7864.
For animal evacuations, please call the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (559) 675-7770 to request help. CCADT will be working with Madera County Animal Control to help with evacs if needed
The hot line number for the Red Cross is 559-343-2549.
All roads past Wawona inside Yosemite are open, including Glacier Point Road, which had been closed since Aug. 27 due to increased fire activity on the Empire Fire. Expect smoky conditions.
For fire updates, residents and visitors can message RAILROADFIRE (one word) to 888777.
A fire information line has been established for the Railroad Fire at 559-373-0040.
The Railroad Fire was reported at 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, just south of the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad on the west side of Highway 41. It is burning on the Bass Lake Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Yosemite Fire Update September 5th, 2017
There are multiple fires burning in Yosemite National Park's wilderness A high pressure system remains in place with cooler temperatures today and increased cloud cover which will limit smoke dispersion. Thunderstorms are possible this afternoon into the early evening. Thunderstorms produce gusty and erratic winds.
Railroad fire is 10,734 acres and 23% contained, improved overnight humidity recovery aided in continued moderation of fire behavior. The evacuation order of Fish Camp was lifted last night at 8 pm, however Fish Camp may become threatened again from fire approaching from the east. Only residents will be allowed and access must be from the north at Wawona. Highway 41 continues to stay closed from south of Wawona to Sky Ranch Road. For more information go to Inciweb:https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5553/
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 7,531 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness through scattered pockets of dense fuel and the south flank backing into the South Fork of the Merced. There was an increase in acreage due to more accurate mapping. Thunderstorms are predicted this afternoon with slightly cooler temperatures and higher relative humidities, producing gusty and erratic winds.
The northern spot fire remains south of handline at Turner meadow, crews brought fire down to Chilnualna Creek to the secure the spot fire with the main fire. Patrols continue along portions of the fire closest to Wawona. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds due to the storms. Bucket work may be continued on the southern boundary of the fire. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and secured with hose lays and handlines. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness, and will be monitored by aircraft due to steep and rugged terrain. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk.
Inciweb:https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5502/
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 4,914 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday. Acreage has increased due to more accurate mapping. Glacier Point Road is scheduled to reopen on Tuesday, September 5, 2017, if favorable conditioned continue. Signage and traffic control will be in place to mitigate smoke and other hazards on the road; there is a potential for implementing temporary road closures or single lane convoys from Bridalveil Camp Ground to Mono Meadow trailhead depending. Weather forecast for today predicts possible thunderstorms over the wildfire location, which could bring gusty and erratic winds. A cooling trend with increased relative humidity is expected over the next 24 to 48 hours.
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. The north, west and south flanks of the fire are contained and holding. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. Fire management personnel are implementing this strategy on three sides of the fire to minimize further smoke production in heavy fuels. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem
Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
Inciweb:https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5475/
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 32.4 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Smoke may be visible from high elevation viewpoints.
A high pressure system remains in place with increased cloud cover form tropical moisture which limits smoke dispersion in the morning and afternoon. Air quality will remain poor close to the fire especially in valleys and drainages. Fire Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities. Community members who are sensitive to smoke may want to close their windows and doors, limit outdoor activity, and monitor the air quality forecast linked below for changes to the forecasted patterns.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
Railroad fire is 10,734 acres and 23% contained, improved overnight humidity recovery aided in continued moderation of fire behavior. The evacuation order of Fish Camp was lifted last night at 8 pm, however Fish Camp may become threatened again from fire approaching from the east. Only residents will be allowed and access must be from the north at Wawona. Highway 41 continues to stay closed from south of Wawona to Sky Ranch Road. For more information go to Inciweb:https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5553/
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 7,531 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness through scattered pockets of dense fuel and the south flank backing into the South Fork of the Merced. There was an increase in acreage due to more accurate mapping. Thunderstorms are predicted this afternoon with slightly cooler temperatures and higher relative humidities, producing gusty and erratic winds.
The northern spot fire remains south of handline at Turner meadow, crews brought fire down to Chilnualna Creek to the secure the spot fire with the main fire. Patrols continue along portions of the fire closest to Wawona. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds due to the storms. Bucket work may be continued on the southern boundary of the fire. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and secured with hose lays and handlines. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness, and will be monitored by aircraft due to steep and rugged terrain. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk.
Inciweb:https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5502/
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 4,914 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday. Acreage has increased due to more accurate mapping. Glacier Point Road is scheduled to reopen on Tuesday, September 5, 2017, if favorable conditioned continue. Signage and traffic control will be in place to mitigate smoke and other hazards on the road; there is a potential for implementing temporary road closures or single lane convoys from Bridalveil Camp Ground to Mono Meadow trailhead depending. Weather forecast for today predicts possible thunderstorms over the wildfire location, which could bring gusty and erratic winds. A cooling trend with increased relative humidity is expected over the next 24 to 48 hours.
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. The north, west and south flanks of the fire are contained and holding. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. Fire management personnel are implementing this strategy on three sides of the fire to minimize further smoke production in heavy fuels. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem
Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
Inciweb:https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5475/
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 32.4 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Smoke may be visible from high elevation viewpoints.
A high pressure system remains in place with increased cloud cover form tropical moisture which limits smoke dispersion in the morning and afternoon. Air quality will remain poor close to the fire especially in valleys and drainages. Fire Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities. Community members who are sensitive to smoke may want to close their windows and doors, limit outdoor activity, and monitor the air quality forecast linked below for changes to the forecasted patterns.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
Officials express ‘cautious optimism’ as battle continues on Railroad Fire
BY MARK EVAN SMITH
[email protected]
SEPTEMBER 05, 2017 8:29 AM
The Railroad Fire, a rampaging blaze north of Oakhurst that threatened ecological landmarks and placed hundreds, if not thousands of people under evacuation, showed minor growth into Tuesday morning, with spokespeople expressing “cautious optimism” that more progress will be made.
“I believe crews are confident that progress levels will stay the same as the great work that was made yesterday,” said Alex Olow, information officer with the South Central Sierra Interagency Management Team. “I guess you could call it cautious optimism. Anything can happen with a fire, of course, but they’re making really good headway out there.”
As of Tuesday morning, the inferno was reported at 10,734 acres and 23% contained, with the total of lost structures still at 14, Olow said.
He said a combination of higher humidity and lower temperatures Monday allowed personnel - 835 with 89 engines, 12 bulldozers, 13 hand crews, five helicopters, and air tankers on order Tuesday - to ensure no additional structural damage took place in Sugar Pine, on Sky Ranch Road, or Fish Camp, all communities most threatened by the blaze.
“Based on what I’ve seen, it’s probably closest to Sugar Pine right now,” Olow said. “With that said, humidity and lower temperatures really helped firefighters slow the spread. There’s still no additional structural damage to report, and crews are working hard out there right now to keep these areas safe.”
Further on the positive end, evacuation orders for Fish Camp were also lifted Monday evening. Highway 41 remains closed in Madera County up to the line with Mairposa County in the area, where the highway was reopened to Yosemite National Park. Residents are being allowed to return, but will have to provide photo identification, and can only enter by traveling through the park.
Olow said on the western and southwestern flank of the fire, crews remained in mopup staging despite a spot fire - initially reported at around 10 acres - that broke out to the north of Road 620 on Sunday evening, forcing pre-evacuation advisories. Olow said that side of the fire was being considered “stable.”
The fire started Aug. 29 near Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, to the north of Oakhurst, and began to burn towards Fish Camp and other areas.
Staff at Tenaya Lodge said they were hoping to reopen Wednesday, Sept. 6. The lodge, other locations like Narrow Gauge Inn and the railroad and all homes and cabins in Sugar Pine and Fish Camp, were evacuated Aug. 29.
Two shelters are available in Oakhurst, at the Oakhurst Community Center (39800 Road 425B) and at Sierra Vista Presbyterian Church (39696 Highway 41).
Small animals are being accepted at the Oakhurst Community Shelter, and Mariposa SPCA Building.
Large animals are being taken at the Coarsegold Rodeo Grounds, similar to the Detwiler Fire in July. Tanner Tweed can be contacted there at (559) 994-2794.
The cause of the Railroad Fire remains under investigation.
Smoky effects from several fires burning in the Mountain Area, from Mariposa to North Fork, forced cancellation of classes at most schools in Eastern Madera County Tuesday.
For more information on the Railroad Fire, visit https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5553/, or call (559) 373-0040.
Message from WAPOA
Dear WAPOA members,
We are sending this group email to all of you whose email addresses we have on file (approximately 150 owners). We wanted to make sure that you know that we have cancelled the September WAPOA meeting scheduled for Saturday Sept. 9th, and the appreciation picnic that we had planned for the firefighters and local responders who having been fighting all these fires.
As you probably know, we have multiple fires in the area and Highway 41 is closed from Cedar Valley to the South entrance to the Park. So you could get to Wawona using Highway 140 through El Portal, but the air quality is something that we worried about, and so we made this decision.
We will email or send a mailing through the Post Office to everyone when we know the future dates for the WAPOA meetings and whether we will be able to have some sort of appreciation event for the firefighters.
For the time being, our thoughts and prayers are with everyone in the affected areas and for the firefighters and responders who are working so hard to save our communities.
Sincerely,
Trish Peterson
WAPOA Treasurer
We are sending this group email to all of you whose email addresses we have on file (approximately 150 owners). We wanted to make sure that you know that we have cancelled the September WAPOA meeting scheduled for Saturday Sept. 9th, and the appreciation picnic that we had planned for the firefighters and local responders who having been fighting all these fires.
As you probably know, we have multiple fires in the area and Highway 41 is closed from Cedar Valley to the South entrance to the Park. So you could get to Wawona using Highway 140 through El Portal, but the air quality is something that we worried about, and so we made this decision.
We will email or send a mailing through the Post Office to everyone when we know the future dates for the WAPOA meetings and whether we will be able to have some sort of appreciation event for the firefighters.
For the time being, our thoughts and prayers are with everyone in the affected areas and for the firefighters and responders who are working so hard to save our communities.
Sincerely,
Trish Peterson
WAPOA Treasurer
Glacier Point Road scheduled to reopen as Yosemite fires show minimal growth
BY MARK EVAN SMITH
[email protected]
SEPTEMBER 04, 2017 5:26 PM
Two fires located in Yosemite National Park, one that previously threatened the community of Wawona, have shown minimal activity into Monday and, barring any changes given oncoming thunderstorms, are being considered a minimal risk, officials said.
Glacier Point Road was scheduled to reopen Tuesday, Sept. 5, they added, should favorable conditions continue. The road was closed Aug. 29.
The South Fork Fire, which began Aug. 13 about a mile east of Wawona, was at 6,804 acres and was 47% contained, officials said in a morning update. Fire activity remains quiet near the community that holds around 1,000-2,000 people at any given time, officials said, with most activity out to the east where firefighters wish for it to burn.
Crews held the fire’s spread along Chilnualna Creek to the north, and would continue securing that line Monday, they said. Fifty personnel were assigned to the fire.
Patrols continue along portions of the blaze closest to Wawona, which remains open to activity despite the growing Railroad Fire burning south in the Fish Camp and Cedar Valley areas.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
The Empire Fire, located near Glacier Point Road to the north of the South Fork Fire, started from a lightning strike July 31, officials said, and was discovered a day later. It was at 4,914 acres Monday and 55% contained.
Officials said fire crews were implementing a perimeter control strategy to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area (formerly Badger Pass), the Yosemite West subdivision, and Wawona Road (Highway 41).
The east flank of the Empire Fire is being allowed to burn naturally to strengthen the forest ecosystem, officials
said.
A third fire, the Starr King fire located far northwest of both blazes and east of Yosemite Valley, was at 32.4 acres Monday.
The weather was expected to cool over the week, which could assist in firefighting efforts, officials said. There was a “slight chance” of thunderstorms over the afternoon period Monday and following days, they said. The storms can cause gusty and erratic winds, which have made firefighting efforts difficult on the Railroad Fire.
Highway 41 remained closed in the Cedar Valley area north of Oakhurst Monday due to the Railroad Fire. All other entrances to Yosemite are open, as are the locations within Wawona such as the Wawona Golf Course and Big Trees Lodge (formerly Wawona Hotel).
Smoky conditions may still exist in the park due to several fires burning in Eastern Madera County and Mariposa County, as well as the three fires in Yosemite, officials said. Those with sensitivity to smoke are advised to consult with their physician, or stay inside with closed windows.
For a full list of campground and trail closures in place due to the South Fork Fire, click here.
For information on the park, dial (209) 372-0200 or visit https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm.
Evacuation Orders for Fish Camp from the Mariposa County Line to the Wawona Entrance gate lifted.
Railroad Fire
At 9PM 9/4/2017
Evacuation Orders will be lifted for Fish Camp Area in Mariposa County only. From the Mariposa County line to the Wawona Entrance Gate. This area will be open to residence only.
Road Closures
Hwy 41 at the Mariposa County Line through to Oakhurst
Residents will need to use the Wawona Entrance Gate to return home.
Please be aware that Fire Crews are working in the area. Please drive with caution as fire crews and heavy equipment remain in the area.
=====================================================
General Information
When you return home:
Be alert for downed power lines and other hazards.
Check propane tanks, regulators, and lines before turning gas on.
Check your residence carefully for hidden embers or smoldering fires.
Contact 911 if any danger is perceived.
There may still be smoke in the respective areas as firefighters continue firefighting operations. If at anytime you feel unsafe, please call 911.
=====================================================
SAFETY MESSAGE – The public is reminded to stay vigilant on current fire conditions. Please continue to adhere to road closures and any evacuation warnings. If you see electrical wires on the ground, stay clear and contact PG&E immediately. Trees and poles with deep charring, particularly if still smoking, should be considered hazardous. Please drive slowly and yield to emergency personnel in the area. As you re-enter your property and evaluate damage, be aware that hazardous conditions may exist, particularly if a residence or out-building has burned. Hazards may include asbestos, heavy metals, by-products of plastic combustion and various other chemicals.
We encourage the public to remain prepared year-round for wildfires by visiting the www.readyforwildfire.org website. The best show of support is having your home and property “fire-ready”.
Instructions:
.
For full details, view this message on the web.
Alert Details
Severity:
Severe - Significant threat to life or property
Urgency:
Expected - Responsive action SHOULD be taken soon (within next hour)
Certainty:
Observed - Determined to have occurred or to be ongoing
Category:
Fire suppression and rescue
Event Description:
Wildfire
At 9PM 9/4/2017
Evacuation Orders will be lifted for Fish Camp Area in Mariposa County only. From the Mariposa County line to the Wawona Entrance Gate. This area will be open to residence only.
Road Closures
Hwy 41 at the Mariposa County Line through to Oakhurst
Residents will need to use the Wawona Entrance Gate to return home.
Please be aware that Fire Crews are working in the area. Please drive with caution as fire crews and heavy equipment remain in the area.
=====================================================
General Information
When you return home:
Be alert for downed power lines and other hazards.
Check propane tanks, regulators, and lines before turning gas on.
Check your residence carefully for hidden embers or smoldering fires.
Contact 911 if any danger is perceived.
There may still be smoke in the respective areas as firefighters continue firefighting operations. If at anytime you feel unsafe, please call 911.
=====================================================
SAFETY MESSAGE – The public is reminded to stay vigilant on current fire conditions. Please continue to adhere to road closures and any evacuation warnings. If you see electrical wires on the ground, stay clear and contact PG&E immediately. Trees and poles with deep charring, particularly if still smoking, should be considered hazardous. Please drive slowly and yield to emergency personnel in the area. As you re-enter your property and evaluate damage, be aware that hazardous conditions may exist, particularly if a residence or out-building has burned. Hazards may include asbestos, heavy metals, by-products of plastic combustion and various other chemicals.
We encourage the public to remain prepared year-round for wildfires by visiting the www.readyforwildfire.org website. The best show of support is having your home and property “fire-ready”.
Instructions:
.
For full details, view this message on the web.
Alert Details
Severity:
Severe - Significant threat to life or property
Urgency:
Expected - Responsive action SHOULD be taken soon (within next hour)
Certainty:
Observed - Determined to have occurred or to be ongoing
Category:
Fire suppression and rescue
Event Description:
Wildfire
Activity On Railroad Fire Slows As Weather Cooperates
Posted by: gina clugston September 4, 2017 - 8:33 pm
OAKHURST — After a very active 24 hours on the Railroad Fire on Sunday, things were quite a bit calmer today.
With cooperation from the weather in the form of lower temperatures, higher humidities and calm winds, firefighters made some good progress.
The fire is still being estimated at 9,790 acres with 23 percent containment. There has been an update to the number of structures destroyed, with the total now at 14, with 500 currently threatened.
At 8 p.m. tonight, the Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office announced that evacuation orders for Fish Camp from the Mariposa County line to the south entrance to Yosemite (Wawona) will be lifted at 9 p.m. tonight, for residents only.
Highway 41 at the Mariposa County Line through to Oakhurst remains closed. Residents will need to use the Wawona Entrance Gate to return home.
Please drive with caution as fire crews and heavy equipment remain in the area.
On the firelines today, the morning’s heat brought reports of several spot fires near the southwest perimeter. Two helicopters got busy with bucket work to knock those down.
Last evening, a spot fire outside the lines near the Miami Mountain Trail presented problems, as winds kicked up and trees torched. Firefighters pulled back and regrouped, and dozers moved in to cut line back away from the fire’s edge.
Today, most of the resources assigned to that southwest perimeter were working the spot fire today. Crews started up on the top and came around the west side with hand line and dozers, and put in hose lay. Any growth was seen on the east side, but the night shift will continue to secure the perimeter.
About 11:30 a.m., the incident meteorologist notified all divisions that there was weak shower activity about seven miles south-southeast of the fire. It was not producing any thunderstorms at the time, but could create outflow winds out of the east with gusts up to 20 mph. The Fish Camp Area got a few sprinkles.
In the Sugar Pine area, crews have been conducting burning operations, removing the fuels between Lewis Creek and Highway 41. They should be finishing up just as the night shift takes over.
A lot of dozer line was put in around Cedar Valley today, and up to Calvin Crest. The fire continues to back toward the structures, but engines are in there doing structure protection, with good success. The fire is also backing down the road that leads into the camp.
In the northeast corner, crews continue to construct and hold indirect line. There was no major movement there today as the fire “chews away” inside the line.
At Rainier Creek north of Jackson Road, hand crews and Crane Valley Hot Shots worked along the fireline, met in the middle, then starting prepping trails and doing a little light firing as needed to bring the fire down to the creek.
The fire continues to back into and across Nelder Grove. Planners say that is the best possible way fire could hit the grove, as opposed to rushing up the mountain and torching and crowning, endangering the ancient trees. The effects of the fire in the grove won’t be known until assessment teams are able to get in after things cool off.
Weather-wise, the day was described as “soupy,” with not a lot of air movement, and not a lot of active burning.
It is expected to remain much the same throughout the night, with temperatures slightly lower than previous days, and much higher humidity, with recovery in the 70 to 80 percent range in the valleys. No thunderstorms are anticipated and there is nothing on the radar that causes planners any concern..
The night shift will be focused on preventing into spread into Cedar Valley, Calvin Crest and Sugar Pine, securing spot fires and patrolling structures.
Once again, air operations were hampered by dense smoke as the Railroad Fire, the Peak Fire in Mariposa County, and the Mission Fire in North Fork all contribute to the bad air quality. Air ops were limited on all three fires today.
There has been one injury reported to a firefighter.
Closures and evacuations on the Railroad Fire (in addition to Sky Ranch):
A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for the Cedar Valley Subdivision, including the following roads:
Jackson Road (6S07) is closed from Fish Camp to Beasore Road.
The mandatory evacuation for the the community of Fish Camp and the Tenaya Lodge has been lifted. The Narrow Gauge Inn, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, the community of Sugar Pine including the Christian Camp, Cedar Valley, Sky Ranch, Big Sandy and Summerdale campgrounds, Nelder Grove, Camp Redwood, Paradise Springs, Calvin Crest, ECCO Conference Center, and Soquel and Texas Flat campgrounds remain under an evacuation order.
Road 620 (Bissett Station) has been given an evacuation advisory due to the spot fire just north toward Miami Motorcycle Trails.
Forest Road Closures
For animal evacuations, people will need to call the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (559) 675-7770 to request help. CCADT will be working with Madera County Animal Control to help with evacs if needed
The hot line number for the Red Cross is 559-343-2549.
All roads past Wawona inside Yosemite are open, except Glacier Point Road, which was closed last Sunday due to increased fire activity on the Empire Fire.
For fire updates, residents and visitors can message RAILROADFIRE (one word) to 888777.
A fire information line has been established for the Railroad Fire at 559-373-0040.
The Railroad Fire was reported at 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, just south of the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad on the west side of Highway 41. It is burning on the Bass Lake Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
OAKHURST — After a very active 24 hours on the Railroad Fire on Sunday, things were quite a bit calmer today.
With cooperation from the weather in the form of lower temperatures, higher humidities and calm winds, firefighters made some good progress.
The fire is still being estimated at 9,790 acres with 23 percent containment. There has been an update to the number of structures destroyed, with the total now at 14, with 500 currently threatened.
At 8 p.m. tonight, the Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office announced that evacuation orders for Fish Camp from the Mariposa County line to the south entrance to Yosemite (Wawona) will be lifted at 9 p.m. tonight, for residents only.
Highway 41 at the Mariposa County Line through to Oakhurst remains closed. Residents will need to use the Wawona Entrance Gate to return home.
Please drive with caution as fire crews and heavy equipment remain in the area.
On the firelines today, the morning’s heat brought reports of several spot fires near the southwest perimeter. Two helicopters got busy with bucket work to knock those down.
Last evening, a spot fire outside the lines near the Miami Mountain Trail presented problems, as winds kicked up and trees torched. Firefighters pulled back and regrouped, and dozers moved in to cut line back away from the fire’s edge.
Today, most of the resources assigned to that southwest perimeter were working the spot fire today. Crews started up on the top and came around the west side with hand line and dozers, and put in hose lay. Any growth was seen on the east side, but the night shift will continue to secure the perimeter.
About 11:30 a.m., the incident meteorologist notified all divisions that there was weak shower activity about seven miles south-southeast of the fire. It was not producing any thunderstorms at the time, but could create outflow winds out of the east with gusts up to 20 mph. The Fish Camp Area got a few sprinkles.
In the Sugar Pine area, crews have been conducting burning operations, removing the fuels between Lewis Creek and Highway 41. They should be finishing up just as the night shift takes over.
A lot of dozer line was put in around Cedar Valley today, and up to Calvin Crest. The fire continues to back toward the structures, but engines are in there doing structure protection, with good success. The fire is also backing down the road that leads into the camp.
In the northeast corner, crews continue to construct and hold indirect line. There was no major movement there today as the fire “chews away” inside the line.
At Rainier Creek north of Jackson Road, hand crews and Crane Valley Hot Shots worked along the fireline, met in the middle, then starting prepping trails and doing a little light firing as needed to bring the fire down to the creek.
The fire continues to back into and across Nelder Grove. Planners say that is the best possible way fire could hit the grove, as opposed to rushing up the mountain and torching and crowning, endangering the ancient trees. The effects of the fire in the grove won’t be known until assessment teams are able to get in after things cool off.
Weather-wise, the day was described as “soupy,” with not a lot of air movement, and not a lot of active burning.
It is expected to remain much the same throughout the night, with temperatures slightly lower than previous days, and much higher humidity, with recovery in the 70 to 80 percent range in the valleys. No thunderstorms are anticipated and there is nothing on the radar that causes planners any concern..
The night shift will be focused on preventing into spread into Cedar Valley, Calvin Crest and Sugar Pine, securing spot fires and patrolling structures.
Once again, air operations were hampered by dense smoke as the Railroad Fire, the Peak Fire in Mariposa County, and the Mission Fire in North Fork all contribute to the bad air quality. Air ops were limited on all three fires today.
There has been one injury reported to a firefighter.
Closures and evacuations on the Railroad Fire (in addition to Sky Ranch):
A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for the Cedar Valley Subdivision, including the following roads:
- Cedar Valley Drive
- Deer Run Trail
- Lazy Oak Drive
- Cedar Brook Road
- Cedar Springs Road
- Mountain Meadow Road
- Chu Ranch Road
- Tolladay Road
- Jackson Road
- Cedar Ridge Circle North and South
- ManzanitA Drive
- Three Springs Road
- Lakeside Drive
- Cedar Place
Jackson Road (6S07) is closed from Fish Camp to Beasore Road.
The mandatory evacuation for the the community of Fish Camp and the Tenaya Lodge has been lifted. The Narrow Gauge Inn, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, the community of Sugar Pine including the Christian Camp, Cedar Valley, Sky Ranch, Big Sandy and Summerdale campgrounds, Nelder Grove, Camp Redwood, Paradise Springs, Calvin Crest, ECCO Conference Center, and Soquel and Texas Flat campgrounds remain under an evacuation order.
Road 620 (Bissett Station) has been given an evacuation advisory due to the spot fire just north toward Miami Motorcycle Trails.
Forest Road Closures
- Road 632 (Sky Ranch)
- Forest Road 5S10 at 5S39
- Forest Road 6S13 at Road 274
- Forest Road 6S08 at 6S36
- Forest Road 6S10 at 6S39
- Forest Road 6S99 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40X at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 5S40Y at Beasore Road
- Worman Road one mile in from Highway 49 (at Road 601).
- Oakhurst Community Center, 39800 Road 425B in Oakhurst
- Sierra Vista Presbyterian, 39696 Highway 41 in Oakhurst
- Porterville College, 100 E. College Ave. in Porterville
For animal evacuations, people will need to call the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (559) 675-7770 to request help. CCADT will be working with Madera County Animal Control to help with evacs if needed
The hot line number for the Red Cross is 559-343-2549.
All roads past Wawona inside Yosemite are open, except Glacier Point Road, which was closed last Sunday due to increased fire activity on the Empire Fire.
For fire updates, residents and visitors can message RAILROADFIRE (one word) to 888777.
A fire information line has been established for the Railroad Fire at 559-373-0040.
The Railroad Fire was reported at 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, just south of the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad on the west side of Highway 41. It is burning on the Bass Lake Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Yosemite Fire Updates - September 4, 2017
There are multiple fires burning in Yosemite National Park's wilderness A high pressure system remains in place with cooler temperatures today and increased cloud cover which will limit smoke dispersion. Thunderstorms are possible this afternoon into the early evening. Thunderstorms produce gusty and erratic winds.
The Railroad Fire is 9,790 acres and 23% contained with 800 personnel. There was significant growth yesterday due to gusty thunderstorm outflow winds. For more information go to Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5553/
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,804 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness through scattered pockets of dense fuel. There was a decrease in fire acreage due to more accurate mapping. Thunderstorms are predicted this afternoon with slightly cooler temperatures and higher relative humidities. Thunderstorms produce gusty and erratic winds.
Crews held fire spread to the north along Chilnualna Creek yesterday and today will continue securing trail on the northern edge. Patrols continue along portions of the fire closest to Wawona. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds. Bucket work will be continued on the southern boundary of the fire. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and cooled with hose lays. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness, and will be monitored by aircraft due to steep and rugged terrain. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk.
Area and trail closures are in place follow posted closure orders and maps.
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 4,914 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday. Acreage has increased due to more accurate mapping. Glacier Point Road is scheduled to reopen on Tuesday, September 5, 2017, if favorable conditioned continue. Signage and traffic control will be in place to mitigate smoke and other hazards on the road; there is a potential for implementing temporary road closures or single lane convoys from Bridalveil Camp Ground to Mono Meadow trailhead depending. Weather forecast for today predicts possible thunderstorms over the wildfire location, which could bring gusty and erratic winds. A cooling trend with increased relative humidity is expected over the next 24 to 48 hours.
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. The north, west and south flanks of the fire are contained and holding. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. Fire management personnel are implementing this strategy on three sides of the fire to minimize further smoke production in heavy fuels. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem
Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 32.4 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Smoke may be visible from high elevation viewpoints.
A high pressure system remains in place with increased cloud cover form tropical moisture which limits smoke dispersion in the morning and afternoon. Air quality will remain poor close to the fire especially in valleys and drainages. Fire Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities. Community members who are sensitive to smoke may want to close their windows and doors, limit outdoor activity, and monitor the air quality forecast linked below for changes to the forecasted patterns.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
The Railroad Fire is 9,790 acres and 23% contained with 800 personnel. There was significant growth yesterday due to gusty thunderstorm outflow winds. For more information go to Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5553/
South Fork
Discovered: 8/13/17
Location: .75 miles east of the community of Wawona
Size: 6,804 acres Cause: Unknown Containment: 47% Fuels: Mixed conifer and red fir
Fire remains quiet near the community of Wawona. The most activity yesterday was on the east flank burning into the wilderness through scattered pockets of dense fuel. There was a decrease in fire acreage due to more accurate mapping. Thunderstorms are predicted this afternoon with slightly cooler temperatures and higher relative humidities. Thunderstorms produce gusty and erratic winds.
Crews held fire spread to the north along Chilnualna Creek yesterday and today will continue securing trail on the northern edge. Patrols continue along portions of the fire closest to Wawona. There may be some burning well interior and visible smoke with increased winds. Bucket work will be continued on the southern boundary of the fire. Both spot fires south of the South Fork of the Merced drainage were contained and cooled with hose lays. Sections of the north flank and the entire east flank are continuing to burn in the wilderness, and will be monitored by aircraft due to steep and rugged terrain. As fire burns into the high country wilderness it will burn actively through pockets of dense vegetation but will then slow down as it progresses into sparse vegetation and natural granite barriers limiting smoke production. This high country wilderness area has minimal values at risk.
Area and trail closures are in place follow posted closure orders and maps.
Empire
Discovered: 8/1/17
Location: 1 mile east of Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area and 3/4 mile south of Glacier Point Road
Size: 4,914 acres Cause: Lightning Containment: 55% Fuels: Red fir
Fire activity was minimal yesterday. Acreage has increased due to more accurate mapping. Glacier Point Road is scheduled to reopen on Tuesday, September 5, 2017, if favorable conditioned continue. Signage and traffic control will be in place to mitigate smoke and other hazards on the road; there is a potential for implementing temporary road closures or single lane convoys from Bridalveil Camp Ground to Mono Meadow trailhead depending. Weather forecast for today predicts possible thunderstorms over the wildfire location, which could bring gusty and erratic winds. A cooling trend with increased relative humidity is expected over the next 24 to 48 hours.
Fire crews are implementing a perimeter control strategy for the north, west, and southern flanks of the fire to protect Bridalveil Campground, Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area, Yosemite West subdivision, Wawona Road (Highway 41), and Glacier Point road. The north, west and south flanks of the fire are contained and holding. Areas of new smoke may be seen as the fire cleans up areas of unburned fuel interior. Fire management personnel are implementing this strategy on three sides of the fire to minimize further smoke production in heavy fuels. The east flank is being allowed to move towards the Illilouette basin to continue to enhance forest resiliency in a fire adapted ecosystem
Yosemite National Park has managed fire in this wilderness area for decades. This high country wilderness area is very steep and rugged with numerous natural barriers and minimal values at risk.
Starr King
Discovered: 8/2/17
Location: N 37° 42.965' x W 119° 29.588' at approximately 7800 feet elevation
Size: 32.4 acres Cause: Lightning Spread Potential: Low/ Moderate
Fuels: Red fir/ Lodgepole Strategy: Monitor
Smoke may be visible from high elevation viewpoints.
A high pressure system remains in place with increased cloud cover form tropical moisture which limits smoke dispersion in the morning and afternoon. Air quality will remain poor close to the fire especially in valleys and drainages. Fire Managers are working with the local Air Quality Districts and will be monitoring smoke impacts to the park and local communities. Community members who are sensitive to smoke may want to close their windows and doors, limit outdoor activity, and monitor the air quality forecast linked below for changes to the forecasted patterns.
https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlooks/2017/CentralSierraFires#Area2
https://app.airsis.com/USFS/UnitMap?custId=11&unitId=1011&isHistoric=False
--
Yosemite Fire and Aviation Information
[email protected]
209-379-1493
Railroad Fire Continues Push South, Now Nearly 10,000 Acres, 23% Contained
by: gina clugston September 4, 2017 - 7:51 am
OAKHURST — It was an eventful night on the lines for crews working the Railroad Fire, which forced the evacuation of Cedar Valley and Sky Ranch yesterday.
The fire is now estimated at 9,790 acres with 23 percent containment. There are no reports of any more structures lost.
Early yesterday evening, a spot fire was reported between Bisset Station Road and Miami Trails. Madera County Sheriff’s deputies located the 10-acre spot on Forest Road 6S17 near 6S24 and flagged it for firefighters.
A strike team of Type 3 engines responded, and just as they were arriving, word came from the incident meteorologist that a wind event was expected in the next 30 minutes, with gusts up to 30 mph. That indeed happened, and by 9:20 p.m., snags were torching, embers flying everywhere and trees where falling. Though crews worked hard to get a hose lay around the fire, by 10:03 p.m. everyone was ordered to pull out and regroup as the winds picked up and the danger increased.
Dozers were sent in to cut a line two blades wide along the southern perimeter of the now-15-acre fire. Deputies started well before dawn going door to door along Road 620 (Bissett Station) to Road 628, warning residents to be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
Last night, crews started near Sugar Pine and were able to successfully burn off the dozer line on the east side and walk it down to the 6S90 road. They reportedly had that line checked up just before the day shift came on.
The fire made a push on the bottom into the south fork of Lewis Creek, and is reported to be holding in the creek this morning.
Up near Calvin Crest, the fire worked its way around the west side and across the top. Firefighters protected those points all through the night. There is still a lot of work to do as the fire makes its way toward the burn from the Sky Fire in 2015. That fire was stopped right at the road into Calvin Crest, and at the southern boundary of Camp Redwood. Both are undamaged as of this morning.
Just north of Cedar Valley, crews cut in a dozer line three blades wide across the top and down the side east of Manzanita Drive. That line runs all the way out to Highway 41. While significant wind events were taking place higher up, the influence of those winds didn’t reach down into the bowl and cause problems for firefighters.
Everything seems to be holding well along the west flank of the fire from Miami Mountain up to Fish Camp and across to the Tenaya Lodge. Also, lines continue to hold near the ignition point, in the interior near the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad.
Crews continue to work on spot fires and strengthening lines up on the northeast corner. There is one large spot fire just southwest of Harts Meadow.
Dozers have cut indirect line from Big Sandy south to just east of Soquel Meadow.
A look at the perimeter map (see below) shows that the fire has pushed well in Nelder Grove, and is approaching the campground and the two historic cabins. Those cabins have been wrapped with fire protective material, and should withstand the flames.
The fire areas continues to be under a moist air mass from the remnants of tropical storm Lidia. Unstable atmosphere and daytime heating means a good chance of thunderstorms and more outflow winds, and possibly lightning. There is even a 20 percent chance of some wetting rain.
Temperatures will be in the mid 80s at 5,000 feet, and in the mid 90s at Base Camp. Relative humidity is expected between 25 and 35 percent.
There are currently 800 personnel assigned to the incident.
Closures and evacuations on the Railroad Fire (in addition to Sky Ranch):
A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for the Cedar Valley Subdivision, including the following roads:
Road closures include all Highway 41 offshoots between Cedar Valley Road and Summerdale Campground north of Fish Camp, in both Madera County and Mariposa County, and Road 630 (Sugar Pine Road) and all cross streets, including Sugar Pine Christian Camps.
Jackson Road (6S07) is closed from Fish Camp to Beasore Road.
A mandatory evacuation is in place for the the community of Fish Camp, the Tenaya Lodge, the Narrow Gauge Inn, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, the community of Sugar Pine including the Christian Camp, Cedar Valley, Sky Ranch, Big Sandy and Summerdale campgrounds, Nelder Grove, Camp Redwood, Paradise Springs, Calvin Crest, ECCO Conference Center, and Soquel and Texas Flat campgrounds.
Road 620 (Bissett Station) has been given an evacuation advisory due to the spot fire just north toward Miami Motorcycle Trails.
There have been some changes to this list of Forest road closures:
The Red Cross Evacuation Center at the Oakhurst Community Center has been reopened at 39880 Road 425B.
Also, the Central California Animal Disaster Team (CCADT) has re-activated a small animal shelter at the Oakhurst Community Center Pavillion Building. Large animals can be sheltered at the Coarsegold Rodeo Grounds, at 44777 Rodeo Grounds Lane in Coarsegold. The phone number is 559-676-7864.
For animal evacuations, people will need to call the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (559) 675-7770 to request help. CCADT will be working with Madera County Animal Control to help with evacs if needed
The hot line number for the Red Cross is 559-343-2549.
All roads past Wawona inside Yosemite are open, except Glacier Point Road, which was closed last Sunday due to increased fire activity on the Empire Fire.
For fire updates, residents and visitors can message RAILROADFIRE (one word) to 888777.
A fire information line has been established for the Railroad Fire at 559-373-0040.
The Railroad Fire was reported at 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, just south of the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad on the west side of Highway 41. It is burning on the Bass Lake Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
OAKHURST — It was an eventful night on the lines for crews working the Railroad Fire, which forced the evacuation of Cedar Valley and Sky Ranch yesterday.
The fire is now estimated at 9,790 acres with 23 percent containment. There are no reports of any more structures lost.
Early yesterday evening, a spot fire was reported between Bisset Station Road and Miami Trails. Madera County Sheriff’s deputies located the 10-acre spot on Forest Road 6S17 near 6S24 and flagged it for firefighters.
A strike team of Type 3 engines responded, and just as they were arriving, word came from the incident meteorologist that a wind event was expected in the next 30 minutes, with gusts up to 30 mph. That indeed happened, and by 9:20 p.m., snags were torching, embers flying everywhere and trees where falling. Though crews worked hard to get a hose lay around the fire, by 10:03 p.m. everyone was ordered to pull out and regroup as the winds picked up and the danger increased.
Dozers were sent in to cut a line two blades wide along the southern perimeter of the now-15-acre fire. Deputies started well before dawn going door to door along Road 620 (Bissett Station) to Road 628, warning residents to be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
Last night, crews started near Sugar Pine and were able to successfully burn off the dozer line on the east side and walk it down to the 6S90 road. They reportedly had that line checked up just before the day shift came on.
The fire made a push on the bottom into the south fork of Lewis Creek, and is reported to be holding in the creek this morning.
Up near Calvin Crest, the fire worked its way around the west side and across the top. Firefighters protected those points all through the night. There is still a lot of work to do as the fire makes its way toward the burn from the Sky Fire in 2015. That fire was stopped right at the road into Calvin Crest, and at the southern boundary of Camp Redwood. Both are undamaged as of this morning.
Just north of Cedar Valley, crews cut in a dozer line three blades wide across the top and down the side east of Manzanita Drive. That line runs all the way out to Highway 41. While significant wind events were taking place higher up, the influence of those winds didn’t reach down into the bowl and cause problems for firefighters.
Everything seems to be holding well along the west flank of the fire from Miami Mountain up to Fish Camp and across to the Tenaya Lodge. Also, lines continue to hold near the ignition point, in the interior near the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad.
Crews continue to work on spot fires and strengthening lines up on the northeast corner. There is one large spot fire just southwest of Harts Meadow.
Dozers have cut indirect line from Big Sandy south to just east of Soquel Meadow.
A look at the perimeter map (see below) shows that the fire has pushed well in Nelder Grove, and is approaching the campground and the two historic cabins. Those cabins have been wrapped with fire protective material, and should withstand the flames.
The fire areas continues to be under a moist air mass from the remnants of tropical storm Lidia. Unstable atmosphere and daytime heating means a good chance of thunderstorms and more outflow winds, and possibly lightning. There is even a 20 percent chance of some wetting rain.
Temperatures will be in the mid 80s at 5,000 feet, and in the mid 90s at Base Camp. Relative humidity is expected between 25 and 35 percent.
There are currently 800 personnel assigned to the incident.
Closures and evacuations on the Railroad Fire (in addition to Sky Ranch):
A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for the Cedar Valley Subdivision, including the following roads:
- Cedar Valley Drive
- Deer Run Trail
- Lazy Oak Drive
- Cedar Brook Road
- Cedar Springs Road
- Mountain Meadow Road
- Chu Ranch Road
- Tolladay Road
- Jackson Road
- Cedar Ridge Circle North and South
- ManzanitA Drive
- Three Springs Road
- Lakeside Drive
- Cedar Place
Road closures include all Highway 41 offshoots between Cedar Valley Road and Summerdale Campground north of Fish Camp, in both Madera County and Mariposa County, and Road 630 (Sugar Pine Road) and all cross streets, including Sugar Pine Christian Camps.
Jackson Road (6S07) is closed from Fish Camp to Beasore Road.
A mandatory evacuation is in place for the the community of Fish Camp, the Tenaya Lodge, the Narrow Gauge Inn, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, the community of Sugar Pine including the Christian Camp, Cedar Valley, Sky Ranch, Big Sandy and Summerdale campgrounds, Nelder Grove, Camp Redwood, Paradise Springs, Calvin Crest, ECCO Conference Center, and Soquel and Texas Flat campgrounds.
Road 620 (Bissett Station) has been given an evacuation advisory due to the spot fire just north toward Miami Motorcycle Trails.
There have been some changes to this list of Forest road closures:
- Road 632
- Forest Road 5S10 at 5S39
- Forest Road 6S13 at Road 274
- Forest Road 6S08 at 6S36
- Forest Road 6S10 at 6S39
- Forest Road 6S99 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40 at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 6S40X at Beasore Road
- Forest Road 5S40Y at Beasore Road
- Worman Road one mile in from Highway 49 (at Road 601).
The Red Cross Evacuation Center at the Oakhurst Community Center has been reopened at 39880 Road 425B.
Also, the Central California Animal Disaster Team (CCADT) has re-activated a small animal shelter at the Oakhurst Community Center Pavillion Building. Large animals can be sheltered at the Coarsegold Rodeo Grounds, at 44777 Rodeo Grounds Lane in Coarsegold. The phone number is 559-676-7864.
For animal evacuations, people will need to call the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (559) 675-7770 to request help. CCADT will be working with Madera County Animal Control to help with evacs if needed
The hot line number for the Red Cross is 559-343-2549.
All roads past Wawona inside Yosemite are open, except Glacier Point Road, which was closed last Sunday due to increased fire activity on the Empire Fire.
For fire updates, residents and visitors can message RAILROADFIRE (one word) to 888777.
A fire information line has been established for the Railroad Fire at 559-373-0040.
The Railroad Fire was reported at 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 29, just south of the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad on the west side of Highway 41. It is burning on the Bass Lake Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
