THE TAKEAWAY
A growing wildfire in California’s Yosemite National Park has forced trail closures as flames scorched more than 1,170 acres Thursday, with firefighters working to contain the blaze.
The Dome Fire started Sept. 15 in Yosemite’s backcountry, located approximately 1/4 mile north of Chilnualna Falls.
Currently, the fire is spreading at a moderate rate to the north and northeast, moving uphill with the terrain and wind, according to the National Park Service (NPS).
The fire was 10% contained as of Thursday.
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Officials said the fire remained active overnight, burning through grass, brush and timber, producing visible smoke along Wawona Road, also known as Highway 41.
Yosemite National Park remains open and operating normally, according to park officials, with some trail closures in place.
The closures include the Chilnualna Falls Trail, as well as trails from the top of Chilnualna Falls toward Buena Vista and Crescent lakes.
The lakes can still be reached from the east side of the park.
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The closure area also extends east of Wawona Road, from Wawona to Chinquapin.
Air quality remained in the good to moderate range in Wawona and Yosemite Valley, officials said.
There are currently no evacuation orders in place, and NPS reported no immediate threats to infrastructure or developed areas.
As the fire continues to spread, crews will monitor conditions and work to contain the blaze.
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