Dome

Crews secure southern flanks as fire moves away from Wawona

The Dome Fire is burning in wilderness terrain north of Wawona Dome and Chilnualna Falls in Yosemite National Park, moving upslope to the north and northeast. Over the last 72 hours, the fire spread away from the community of Wawona, allowing firefighters to secure containment lines along the south and west flanks. No developed areas or park infrastructure are currently threatened.

Evacuations and Closures

• No evacuation orders or warnings are in effect as of September 16.
• The Chilnualna Falls Trail and connecting trails toward Buena Vista and Crescent Lakes are closed due to fire activity as of September 16.
• Buena Vista and Crescent Lakes remain accessible from the east as of September 16.
• Yosemite National Park remains open and operating normally as of September 16.

Impact

Smoke is visible from Wawona Road (Highway 41) and is creating hazy conditions across portions of Yosemite National Park. No structural damage or injuries have been reported.

Conditions and Outlook

Southerly breezes will give way to lighter easterly winds alongside warmer and drier conditions heading into the weekend. The fire is expected to continue its moderate upslope spread to the north and northeast through wilderness timber and brush. Firefighters plan to continue suppression with ground resources and aircraft while leveraging natural terrain features to slow progression.

Cause and Context

The cause of the fire remains under investigation as of September 15.

Official updates current through September 16, 2026.