Bridalveil Fire Update: Do You See Smoke?
Bridalveil Fire (37 42.412 x 119 38.389 – Mariposa County - 6,300 feet elevation)
The Bridalveil Fire was reported on the evening of October 5. The fire is approximately 30 acres in size and smoke is visible from many locations within Yosemite Valley, Sentinel Dome, and the North Rim of the Valley. This fire poses no threats to public safety or park infrastructure. There is no percentage of containment.
This fire is being suppressed. Yosemite Fire Crews and 2 USDA, US Forest Service Hot Shot crews, Groveland and Sierra, are committed to fire suppression efforts. Helicopter water bucket drops continue to cool the flanks of the fire. It is within designated wilderness and Minimum Impact Suppression Tactics (MIST) will be utilized.
On October 5, Helicopter 551 responded, located the fire and its fire crew rappelled into the remote fire area. The fire area is very steep and rocky, with few opportunities to engage the fire with direct attack. There has been one injury. The west facing aspect fire becomes more active mid-morning and into late afternoon due to sunlight keeping the brush and timber fuels dry and receptive to increased fire activity.
Map of Bridalveil Fire location. [2.12 MB PDF]
Trail Closure
The Pohono Trail is closed from Dewey Point south to the trail junction from Taft Point and McGurk Meadow. The cause is unknown. There has been no lightning in the area since early August.
General Information
Please remember – Yosemite and California continue to experience very dry conditions. Although it is fall, and nights are cooler, all visitors are urged to be diligent in any use of fire, including smoking. And be sure all fires are out before departing any campsite!
Please do not report this fire.
Fire information: email, or call: 209/372-0480.
Air Quality: www.mariposacounty.org/aqi