As I write this blog, there are more than seventeen wildfires in California. Many have the potential to bring smoke to the John Muir Trail, but the four listed above are the most significant.
The Ferguson Fire is by far the most serious; it is only 30% contained. More information regarding the fire can be found here.
The Lions Fire is 92% contained. More information regarding the fire can be found here.
The Georges Fire is more than 70% contained. This fire closed Whitney Portal for several days in the beginning of July. More information regarding this fire can be found here.
The Horse Creek Fire is a small one that is already nearly 100% contained. More information regarding this fire can be found here.
For more information on fires throughout California you can consult the California Statewide Fire Map.
Note that on the illustration, above, I have indicate the prevailing winds in the area for July, August and September. Winds are generally out of the northwest during the afternoons and evenings. For a few hours each morning it is normal for them to shift from the south. These are prevailing winds, though, which does not take into account daily weather patterns. Winds on any particular day could come from any direction.
One last note: the Carr Fire is much further north, but is so large that is could foul the air above the northern half of the JMT. More on the Carr Fire here.
Good hiking, Ray
Thanks ofr the updates Ray. We are hoping our late Aug-mid Sept plans prevail clean air and nice weather…. Prepaired for the worst and hoping for the best is another ay to put it! Hope to see you on the trail and thanks ofr all the great info and insight.
DS
Thanks for the comment, Dana!
Nice high-level view, thanks Ray!
More than welcome, John. Thanks for the comment.
The Lions Fire has flared up in the last week – now only 72% contained
now estimated to be 5,456 acres
now showing hundreds of acres of growth per day
only 111 firefighters…
Thanks, Jim. Not good!
The Lions Fire as of this morning has been downgraded to only 72% contained.
Thanks, Rob. Appreciate the update.
Thank you so much Ray!