SIERRA NATIONAL FOREST – Yesterday afternoon the lightning-caused Rough Fire, burning on the Sierra National Forest north of Hume Lake, became very active doubling in size, from 600 to 1,200 acres with zero percent containment.
Though the fire is southeast of Shaver Lake and some 50 miles from Oakhurst as the crow flies, smoke from the fire has impacted the area as far north as Yosemite Valley.
Warmer, drier temperatures forecast for today prompted fire officials to expect active fire behavior this afternoon.
Crews continue constructing indirect line along the north flank of the fire. While the Type 1 helicopters continue water drops along the southern flank to help slow the fires advance towards Kings River. Helicopters continued to draw water from Hume Lake. Construction of contingency line will continue south of the Kings River. Motorists are advised to please be careful along Highway 180 as crews are very active in this area.
There are currently 321 personnel assigned to the incident. The fire started on July 31, and has an estimated containment date of Aug. 22.
Closures
Currently there are no closures on the Sierra National Forest.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks remain fully open with no closures. Visitors may experience smoke impacts in the Cedar Grove area. For air quality updates for the parks, please visit go.nps.gov/sekiair for more information.
Fire Restrictions
Fire restrictions are in place for the Sierra National Forest. Campfires are only allowed in designated developed recreation sites.
