Abandoned Campfire Caused Yosemite’s Dome Fire
Containment reaches 39% as crews continue work in rugged backcountry and Glacier Point Road remains closed.
An abandoned campfire caused the Dome Fire burning in Yosemite National Park, according to the incident’s official information page, adding a significant development to a fire that has disrupted access to the park’s southern wilderness for more than two weeks.
As of Wednesday morning, September 30, the fire covered 5,585 acres and was 39% contained, with 932 personnel assigned. The official incident listing identifies the cause as human-caused by an abandoned campfire. Dome Fire incident information
The fire was reported September 15 near Chilnualna Falls, north of Wawona Dome. Although Yosemite remains open, the response continues to affect visitors traveling to Glacier Point and hikers heading into nearby backcountry.
Containment has increased substantially since Friday, September 25, when CAL FIRE reported the fire at 4,258 acres and 17% contained. The National Park Service has jurisdiction over the incident, with California Complex Incident Management Team 3 managing the response. CAL FIRE incident record
In Tuesday’s operational update, officials reported that crews had connected additional portions of the northern and northeastern perimeter to control lines. Firefighters were also strengthening backup lines ahead of the fire.
Supplying those crews remains an important part of the operation. Pack mules are delivering supplies and carrying equipment out of remote locations, helping support firefighters working in terrain with difficult access.
For visitors, Glacier Point Road remains closed because of smoke and firefighting operations. The Four Mile and Panorama trails remain open, according to the incident update.
Closures also include Chilnualna Falls Trail, routes beyond the falls toward Buena Vista and Crescent lakes, and Ostrander Trail and areas south of it. Visitors should consult the official incident information and closure maps before setting out.
Yosemite’s fire management program distinguishes between fire’s ecological role and incidents requiring suppression. The park says it suppresses human-caused fires and fires that threaten people or property, while also studying and managing fire as a natural part of its ecosystems. Yosemite fire information
Residents and visitors can check changing smoke conditions through the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map.
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Feature Photo: An Inyo National Forest engine pumps water from portable tanks to support firefighting operations on Yosemite’s Dome Fire.
Source credit: Dome Fire incident team/InciWeb.