South Fork Fire Update #22 September 4th, 2017

September 04, 2017 Posted by: Yosemite Fire Information

Start date: 8/13/17 2:30 p.m.
Size: 6,804 acres
Containment: 47% Incident Personnel: 50
Cause: Unknown Helicopters: 1
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 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.

The following trail and area closures are in place until further notice:

• The Swinging Bridge Trail on both the north and south sides of the South Fork of the Merced River.
• The Chilnualna Falls Trail from Wawona Trailhead to the top of Chilnualna Falls.
• The two mile connecting trail heading north from the top of Chilnualna Falls to the intersection of the Buena Vista Trail.
• The Chilnualna Creek Trail from the top of Chilnualna Falls east to the intersection of the Buena Vista and Buck Camp trails (Just east of Johnson Lake).
• Turner Meadow Trail
• Turner Meadow intersection east to Buena Vista trail
• Off-trail areas in the vicinity of the South Fork Fire Area, including the swimming holes north of Chilnualna Creek.
• All climbing routes on and around Wawona Dome are closed.

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 for changes to the forecasted patterns.