Overview
- The Dome Fire began in Yosemite’s backcountry near Chilnualna Falls on Sept. 15 and has burned roughly 5,400–5,585 acres with containment improving into the high 30s percent.
- The U.S. Forest Service concluded investigators found an abandoned, unattended campfire started the blaze and the National Park Service is asking the public to call a tip line with the person responsible potentially facing federal charges.
- A contracted firefighting helicopter crashed while conducting water drops on Sept. 20–21 and killed two crew members identified as Greg King and Ryan Cutter; the NTSB and FAA are investigating the accident.
- Crews have used Minimal Impact Suppression Tactics because the fire is in designated wilderness, relying on firing operations, handlines, helicopters and pack mules while cooler, moister periods have helped tie containment lines.
- Yosemite remains open but key corridors including Glacier Point Road, Chilnualna Falls and Ostrander trail areas are closed, smoke is causing variable air quality, and past burn scars and standing dead trees continue to shape fire behavior.