South entrance to Yellowstone Park reclosed and evacuated due to Berry Fire
by Yellowstone National Park
September 12, 2016
Fire activity increased on the Berry Fire yesterday, Sunday, September 11, south of the Park. Heavy smoke and falling trees forced a closure between the Yellowstone South Entrance and Lizard Creek Campground on Hwy 89/191/287.
Lewis Lake Campground is still open and visitors are allowed to access that campground from the north. Only visitors headed to Lewis Lake Campground or backcountry trailheads along the park road will be allowed to drive south of the Grant Intersection.
National Park Service staff housed at South Entrance were evacuated safely. All employees are accounted for and most of them have been relocated to Grant. Park staff also helped at Flagg Ranch during evacuations.
The park sent three engines and several rangers to the Berry Fire to assist with structure protection and public safety. The Maple Fire sent one engine and a hotshot crew.
Cooler temperatures and higher humidities are predicted for Monday, September 12, with possible moisture.
For information on the Grand Teton National Park Berry Fire visit http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4954/.
For information on Yellowstone National Park fires visit https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/management/currentfireactivity.htm.
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