Tehipite Fire Shows Growth on Northeast Flank
Incident: Tehipite Wildland Fire
Released: 8/19/2008
The Tehipite Fire is showing continued growth on its northeast flank. It was mapped at 978 acres yesterday 08/18/08.
Fire spread is primarily from burning vegetation rolling down the steep slopes and then spreading fire outside the perimeter. The fire continues to hook around its perimeter on the eastern side and spread uphill. Favorable fire behavior is being observed.
The fire is being monitored by two firefighters near the fire, by fire look-outs at Buck Rock, by viewing the Buck Rock web cam, and by periodic helicopter flights at this time. Steep, inaccessible terrain presents safety concerns for firefighters. Direct fire response is unsafe along much of the perimeter.
There are no immediate threats to life or property. As a safety measure:
· Thee trail between Simpson Meadow and the park boundary remains closed
· The Blue Canyon Trail is closed at the park boundary to Big Meadow.
Rangers will work with visitors to provide alternative backpacking options for those with itineraries that include Tehipite Valley or Blue Canyon.
The Tehipite Fire is located in Tehipite Valley and the cliffs north and west of the valley in Kings Canyon National Park. It is burning in old growth mixed conifer, red fir, and live oak between 4,000 - 7,400 feet in elevation in steep bluffs and cliffs. The fire started by lightning on or around July 14.
Fire is an essential part of Sierra Forest ecology. Plants and animals have adapted to periodic low intensity fires that occur naturally here. Each year, lightning strikes result in wildland fires that help shape the wilderness. Naturally occurring fire allows forests to be thinned, opening the canopy and allowing sunlight through which allows for the sprouting and re-growth of plants, shrubs and trees.
Visit http://sierrafire.cr.usgs.gov/cgi-bin/swfrs display webcam lm.pl camera=buck rock 1 to view the fire.
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