Highway 41 remains closed as thunderstorm activity over the Labor Day weekend pushed the fire south resulting in increased growth and spotting.
Highway 41 is closed in both directions from south of Wawona to Sky Ranch Road. Yosemite visitors should use Highway 49 to Highway 140 or 120 for entrance to the National Park. The Summerdale, Big Sandy, and Nelder Grove Campgrounds on the Sierra National Forest are closed. Sky Ranch Road is closed at Buckskin, as are roads between Beasore Road and Sky Ranch Road.
A mandatory evacuation order has been issued by the Madera County Sheriff’s Office for Sky Ranch Road and Cedar Valley. An evacuation advisory for north of Bissett Station Road between Highway 41 and Round House Road remains in effect.
The fire is currently burning through the Nelder Grove of Giant Sequoias. Historic cabins within the grove have been wrapped for protection from the fire.
Crews are monitoring and mopping up the west side of the fire. Fish Camp is in patrol status and is currently stable.
Caltrans is working on clearing hazard trees along Highway 41. Their work will continue for the next several days to ensure safety for travelers into Fish Camp and Yosemite National Park.
The fire is expected to continue spreading east toward Little Sandy and downslope from Speckerman Mountain Peak. Southwest spread will continue toward Sugar Pine and Cedar Valley. Further spread potential into the Nelder Grove Historic Area. South to Calvin Crest, Corlieu Falls, California Meadow.
Currently the fire is at 9,790 acres and 23% containment. 13 hand crews, 5 helicopters, 89 engines, 12 dozers, and over 835 personnel are assigned to the fire. Air tankers have been ordered and will support the fire as available.