Yosemite fires shut roads

The Fresno Bee

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YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK -- Two lightning-caused fires in Yosemite National Park have forced temporary closures of trails and roads, park authorities said Sunday.

Travelers can expect temporary road delays and closures because of smoke and firefighters working along Wawona and Glacier Point roads, according to the National Park Service. Fire and smoke are visible along the roads, and drivers should use caution.

The Smith Meadow to White Wolf and Aspen Valley to White Wolf trails have been closed. There is an alternate route to Pate Valley from White Wolf that bypasses the fire area.

The Grouse fire, located three miles southwest of Yosemite Valley and north of Glacier Point Road, involves about 2,300 acres and is roughly 50 percent contained. The Harden fire, on the north side of the park, west of Harden Lake and northwest of White Wolf, is 1,594 acres and 75 percent contained.

Crews are working to limit the spread of the Grouse fire to an area east of Wawona Road and north of Glacier Point Road.

Crews are trying to complete containment lines before the weather changes. Forecasters say several low-pressure systems are heading toward the area, which could bring cooler temperatures and strong winds.

All park facilities remain open.