Date: August 3, 2008
Contact: Sandy Hare or Barbara Dougan, LeHardy Fire ICP 307-344-7102
Gusty winds and low humidity resulted in a very active fire day Saturday on the LeHardy Fire in Yellowstone National Park.
Visitors to Yellowstone witnessed huge, billowing smoke columns and torching as the LeHardy Fire grew over 2500 acres Saturday. A Red Flag Warning was issued for Saturday and the three weather components required came together to create the perfect conditions for rapid fire growth. Visitors lined the roads to take pictures of the impressive smoke columns and fire activity.
The fire is moving in a northeast direction into the back country away from Fishing Bridge. Hotshots and engine crews, with the help of water drops, are continuing to reinforce a control line along the section of the fire on the west bank of the Yellowstone River.
Cooler temperatures and possible isolated showers are predicted for Sunday, but firefighters are still preparing for a busy day. Mop up operations will continue on the west side of Grand Loop Road while crews on the east side will continue developing a buffer zone between the fire and Fishing Bridge.
Joe Krish, Incident Commander for the LeHardy Fire, stated “This is a long term fire. We expect it to be with us for awhile and are currently developing a long range strategy.”
There is no risk to visitors and all park entrance and seasonal services are open. Some back country trails remain temporarily closed. Information is available at all of the park’s back country offices or by calling 307-344-2160.
- www.nps.gov/yell -
