Hot and dry weather has hindered efforts to slow the growth of a forest fire near Yosemite National Park that killed a California firefighter last weekend, leading some tourists to cut short their visits although all park trails remained open.
The blaze roaring through dry brush and timber between the town of Mariposa and Yosemite National Park has scorched more than 49 square kilometres in steep terrain on the park's western edge, the U.S. Forest Service said.
More than 1400 firefighters were battling the flames threatening more than 100 homes and businesses, the Forest Service said. It's just five per cent contained.
An inversion layer trapped smoke in the area, limiting air attacks and leading officials to issue a hazardous air alert, saying people with health conditions should stay indoors.
All amenities and trails remained opened Tuesday, and park rangers tending the entrances and the visitor centre were informing tourists of the poor air quality.
Air quality monitors showed particulate levels in the park at "very unhealthy" levels, meaning everyone should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion or risk serious health effects such as respiratory problems.
Images posted to social media showed billowing smoke completely obscuring Half Dome, an iconic rock formation. Park webcams showed other landmarks, such the El Capitan rock formation, at times concealed by thick plumes of smoke.
A high pressure system was trapping the smoke that is polluting the air, and the same weather phenomenon is expected Wednesday, National Weather Service forecaster Cindy Bean said.
There is a possibility of thunderstorms Thursday, which could bring erratic winds and create containment problems for fire crews, Bean said.
A big concern is thousands of dead trees that were killed by an epic drought that has gripped California for several years.
On Monday, crews retrieved the body of heavy fire equipment operator Braden Varney, 36, after he died in steep terrain on Saturday. Firefighters took turns keeping vigil near Varney's body and saluted as it was taken to a coroner's office.
The blaze that started Friday prompted officials over the weekend to order the evacuation of the Yosemite Cedar Lodge, which is outside the park, and of several nearby communities as flames crept up slopes.
Australian Associated Press
