Snow Curbs Fire Growth in Yellowstone National Park

Rain and snow across Yellowstone cut down on fire activity. Similar conditions will moderate fire growth today.

In addition, effective noon today, Stage 1 Fire Restrictions have been lifted in the Park. The first half-mile of Slough Creek road has also been reopened, permitting anglers to reach the gravel pit. Slough Creek Campground and area trails are still closed.

Air quality in the West Yellowstone area may verge on “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups,” owing to smoke from the Maple Fire.

In spite of wetter conditions and the relaxing of fire restrictions, ire danger continues to be high, as crews continue to patrol and assess fires around the Park.

UPDATE: The South Entrance has reopened after a temporary closure.

According to a Yellowstone press release, Maple Fire grew 1,887 acres since our report yesterday and now measures 45,377 acres. Crews report the perimeter is secure, with engines patrolling the fire’s edge. In addition, crews will be rehabilitating control lines along the Madison River and in the northwest corner of the fire.

Further north, there has been no reported growth in Buffalo Fire since yesterday, owing to weather conditions detrimental to infrared mapping. As it stands, Buffalo Fire measures 10,839 acres. Crews have completed cleanup of dead/downed trees along area trails. You can still see Buffalo Fire intermittently from the Mount Washburn Fire Lookout – Northeast Webcam.

There were no reported increases in Fawn, Central, and Jasper Fires, which continue to be unstaffed and monitored from the air. You can see Central Fire intermittently from the Mount Washburn Fire Lookout – South Webcam.

Besides the South Entrance and facilities affected by seasonal closures, all park roads and visitor facilities, both NPS- and concessionaire-operated, are open at this time.