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Yosemite National Park
Powerhouse Fire Contained in Yosemite National Park
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Date: September 18, 2006
Firefighters have contained the Powerhouse Fire and mop up operations are underway. The fire was discovered today at approximately 5:00 am. Using GPS, fire managers accurately assessed the fire at 3.5 acres. The fire is ½ mile west of the Big Oak Flat (Highway 120 in the park)/ El Portal Road (Highway 140 in the park) junction.
Yosemite National Park firefighters and California Department of Forestry crews are working to contain the fire. There are 70 firefighters, 4 engines, and 1 helicopter committed to this fire.
All roads and facilities are open. However, visitors should expect traffic control along the El Portal Road. This is for both public and firefighter safety. Mop up and patrol operations will continue for the next several days.
The Powerhouse Fire is a human-caused fire and is being actively investigated.
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Did You Know?
The indigenous people of Yosemite Valley have used fire as a tool for thousands of years. Fire was used to encourage the growth of plants used for basket making and to promote the growth of the black oak--a sun loving species--and a staple food source for American Indians from this region.
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Last Updated: September 18, 2006 at 19:15 EST |
