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Yosemite National Park
Fire Season Ends in Yosemite National Park

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Date: October 15, 2009

Yosemite National Park announces the end of the fire season, tomorrow, October 16th, 2009. 

Yosemite National Park experienced measurable precipitation earlier this week.  The rainfall measurement, from park weather stations, varied from 9 inches of rain in the Mariposa Grove, to approximately 8 inches of rain in Wawona, to 5.5 inches of rain in Yosemite Valley.  Measurable snow also fell at higher elevations.  Closure of the fire season occurs when there is a season ending precipitation event totaling 2 inches or more.  Historically, there is a 90% chance that Yosemite will have a season ending weather event by October 31. 

Helicopter 551, Yosemite’s helicopter that is contracted for the fire season, has now left the park.  Additionally, seasonal fire personnel are completing their assignments and will soon also be leaving the park. 

View of Yosemite Valley from the Wawona Tunnel Vista.  

Did You Know?
Rockfall events have helped shape many of the outstanding features along Yosemite Valley's walls, including Royal Arches, North Dome, and Half Dome. Giant talus slopes that slant away from the Valley walls accumulate debris with each rockfall event.

Last Updated: October 15, 2009 at 19:40 EST