Yellowstone National Park Fire Update for 11:00 AM September 16, 2012
Incident: Cygnet Complex Wildfire
Released: 9/16/2012
September 16, 2012 - 11:00 a.m.
Summary: A Red Flag Warning remains in effect for Yellowstone National Park until 7:00 p.m. Sunday for low relative humidity and some gusty winds combining with very dry fuels. Fire and smoke activity will likely be more subdued on the Cygnet and Dewdrop fires burning in the central portion of the park today, although the dry weather can still produce optimum conditions for rapid fire spreads. A cold front that moved through the region early this morning will bring cooler temps and possibly some much needed moisture.
Cygnet Fire: Some light smoke will be seen along the Norris to Canyon road where this 2,800 acre, lightning-caused fire is burning. A section of the backcountry south of the road corridor remains closed, and trails to the north have also been temporarily closed today. Increased fire and/or smoke activity could also result in a temporary road closure with little notice. Located 5 miles southwest of Canyon Village, the Cygnet Fire was discovered on August 10.
Dewdrop Fire: This lightning-caused fire is in the backcountry, 9 miles southeast of Canyon Village. It is estimated at 1,200 acres. Some backcountry closures remain in effect.
Range Fire: This 400 acre backcountry fire is located 8.5 miles southwest of Tower Fall, though little activity has been seen in the past few days. Like the Dewdrop Fire, this lightning caused fire was discovered in late July.
Other fires and smoke: In addition to the smoke from park fires, smoke drifting into the park from fires across the region may also be visible at times.
Weather: Partly cloudy skies and moderate northwest winds today. Afternoon temps are forecast to be 7 to 15 degrees cooler than yesterday with slightly higher humidity. There is a chance of isolated showers - even a slight chance of a thunderstorm - though no widespread significant measurable rains are expected. Monday will be dry with seasonal temps, but warming up again Tuesday.
Fire Restrictions: There are no fire restrictions in the park. However, visitors are encouraged to be careful with fire.
Impacts to visitors and area residents: All roads leading to the park and all park entrances, roads, campgrounds, lodging, stores and other visitor services are open. Backcountry closure details are available at any park Visitor Center or Backcountry Office. Backcountry information can also be obtained by calling 307-344-2160.
Additional Information: Fire information is available 24-hours a day by calling 307-344-2580, on the web at http://www.inciweb.org/unit/5382/, or on Twitter @YellowstoneNPS.
