Update:  01 Aug - Wed - 8:30 am

Yellowstone National   Park officials report that the Arthur Fire that closed the park's East Entrance Road to all inbound and outbound traffic on Sunday, July 29, is now estimated at around 1500 acres and remains about one mile west of the park's East Entrance. The fire has spotted, with one spot less than 150 yards from the road at some locations. The road will remain closed until it is safe to reopen to traffic.

There was little activity on the fire yesterday because of the cooler temperatures in the 60s and higher humidity. Activity is expected to increase today with the forecast of temperatures in the 70s and 80s and lower humidity. Winds are expected to be out of the west at 8-15 mph. 

The incident command team is now onsite and operational. Close to 400 people are committed to the fire at this time, and more are expected. Resources currently include 10 ground crews, 11 helicopters (5 are Type 1), and 2 fixed wing aircraft stationed out of West Yellowstone, Montana. 

Because of low fire activity, two hot shot crews were able to attack the spot close to the road. The fire is located in a ravine in steep rugged terrain, and is too dangerous for crews to attack during heavy fire activity. One fire retardant drop was done yesterday but was unsuccessful because of winds. Numerous bucket drops were done later in the day. Structural fire protection continued at the East Entrance and other facilities outside the park.

Arthur Fire ground crews also assisted the park on another fire in the park. The Inkspot Fire is a fire that was caused by an illegal unattended campfire near Washburn Hot Springs southeast of Mount Washburn on July 26. This fire is close to containment and is currently estimated to be around 3 acres.

Today, ground crews will again fight the spots close to the road and try to establish a line around them. Bucket drops will be done throughout the day; and fire retardant drops will be done if appropriate. Structural protection will continue on the East Entrance and other facilities in the area. 

Park officials remind visitors that all entrances, except for the East Entrance, remain open, as well as all visitor and park facilities, including all lodging, food services, general stores, gift shops, and campgrounds. Park visitors whose travel route takes them through Cody, Wyoming, can access the park through the Northeast Entrance. The nighttime closure (9 p.m. to 9 a.m.) between Madison and Norris for road construction remains in place.