Dome Fire Update, September 17, 2026 (morning)

News Release Date: September 17, 2026

Current Situation

The Dome Fire remained active overnight with most activity being on the west and north flanks of the fire. Numerous spot fires continue to be well out ahead to the north of the fire due to gusty, ridge winds from the south and southeast. Some spot fires are in areas with no fire history while others are creeping and smoldering in the 2017 Empire Fire footprint. Visible smoke and good to unhealthy air quality is expected today as the fire continues to burn through grass, brush, and timber fuels. Visit fire.airnow.gov to check air quality.

Today, ground crews will continue constructing direct handlines and looking for opportunities to tie the fire into previous fire footprints and granite features. Three more hotshot crews will be flown into the fire today to reinforce work on the fire perimeter from the heel of the fire and working up to the eastern flank. Helicopters will continue water drops throughout the day.

Weather

Today's weather pattern will deliver similar winds but with cooler temperatures and low and mid-level cloud later throughout the fire area. Expect some wind gusts during the late afternoon to early evening of 15-25 mph. Due to significant elevation change over small distances near the fire, firefighters expect to see some moderation from the predicted forecast.

Evacuations

There are no evacuation orders or warnings in place. There are no immediate threats to infrastructures or developed areas.

Closures

Yosemite National Park is open and operating normally, with the following exception. The ChilnualnaFalls trail, as well as the trails from the top of Chilnualna Falls towards Buena Vista and Crescent Lakes, are closed due to the Dome Fire. (These lakes are reachable from the east.)

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