The Yosemite Dome Fire, which has scorched thousands of acres, was ignited by an abandoned campfire, officials said Tuesday, revealing that the wildfire may have been preventable.
The fire started at about 7 a.m. on Sept. 15, according to Cal Fire. Since then, flames have consumed roughly 5,500 acres and prompted the closure of several trails inside Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite officials closed Glacier Point Road on Sept. 23. The route provides access to Glacier Point, one of the park’s most renowned overlooks.
Officials cited smoke-driven visibility problems and the need to keep firefighting operations in the area safe as reasons for the closure.
Cal Fire’s latest update said firefighters had contained more than one-third of the blaze.
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The fire has been burning through wilderness areas containing grass, brush and timber, the agency previously reported. It has been moving uphill with the terrain and wind, while difficult access has complicated firefighting efforts.
Two firefighting pilots, Greg King and Ryan Cutter, have died in connection with the blaze.
Fire crews gathered in Modesto on Tuesday morning for a ceremony honoring the two pilots.
Although no structures have been damaged, the wildfire has affected surrounding communities and remains active.
The fire continues to advance north and northeast, while firefighters have managed to hold its western and southern edges.
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