A new wildfire is burning in the northwest corner of Yellowstone National Park
On Tuesday afternoon, some folks in Tom Miner Basin, Montana just north of Yellowstone National Park’s northwest boundary reported seeing smoke coming from the park.
The National Park Service helicopter spotted a new fire that was probably started by lightning several days ago.
The blaze is estimated at 5 acres and was named the Big Horn Fire. It is in very steep, rugged, and rocky terrain in the remote northwest corner of the park.
Fire crews will monitor the fire.
Snow and rain are in the forecast and could extinguish the fire and bring an end to the fire season.
Only one backcountry campsite is affected, and it will be closed for the rest of the season.
Despite the new fire, Yellowstone has lowered the parkwide fire danger level from VERY HIGH to HIGH.
Currently, there are no fire restrictions in place or planned in the park.
Campfires are only permitted within established fire rings in campgrounds and some backcountry campsites.
Campfires must always be attended and cold to the touch before abandoning. Soak, stir, feel, repeat.
The Greater Yellowstone area is a fire-adapted ecosystem. Fire plays an important role in maintaining the health of this area’s wildlife habitat and vegetation.
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