Smoky Skies Over Yosemite

Yosemite, CA – An update by Yosemite National Park fire officials on two fires burning in the park — one man-made, the other sparked by Mother Nature.

Fire managers will be igniting more acreage in the Mariposa Grove prescribed fire. Last week, 31 acres were set ablaze in the lower grove. Today an additional 15 acres will be lit and smoke will be visible for the next several days.  As reported here, a major restoration project is underway in the grove, which is currently closed to the public, making it a perfect time to ignite the prescribed burn with minimal impact to visitors, according to fire officials.

Meanwhile, the Lakes Fire sparked by a lightning strike this summer continues burning between Turner Meadow and Buena Vista Peak. Earlier this week, ground crews hiked into the area and report the fire is 1,001 acres in size. The flames have spread into the1999 Chil Fire footprint. Fire officials indicate that the blaze is most active on the west, north and northeast edge of the perimeter.  There are trail closures in a stretch along Chilnualna Creek and a section between Turner Meadow and Buena Vista Lake.