20 Aug 2018 | 08:31 PM UTC
US: Ferguson Fire declared fully contained August 19 /update 11
Firefighters in California declare Ferguson Fire 100 percent contained August 19; expect lingering disruptions in the coming days
Event
Authorities announced on Sunday, August 19, that the so-called Ferguson fire had been fully contained. The wildfire, which began on July 13, has burned 39,250 hectares (97,000 acres) of land near Yosemite National Park in Mariposa county. At least two firefighters have been killed by the fire and 19 others have been injured. Though sporadic fires may continue to burn within containment lines, the fire is not expected to grow any larger. The majority of tourist areas in Yosemite National Park have been reopened. Previously ordered evacuations and road closures may remain in place for several days until authorities declare that affected areas are safe. Authorities expect that one such road closure, Wawona Road from Chinquapin to Tunnel View, will reopen on Friday, August 24. Up-to-date information on this and other active wildfires in California can be found on the CalFire website or Twitter account.
Context
The Ferguson fire began on July 13 in the Sierra National Forest. Wildfires are frequent in California from May through November.
Advice
Individuals in affected areas are advised to exercise caution when traveling in areas near the wildfire, adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and monitor the situation. Children and those with respiratory illnesses are advised to limit outdoor activity due to potential smoke inhalation.
