Yosemite National Park Big Meadow Fire update

The Big Meadow Fire in Yosemite National Park continues to grow, with estimates this morning at 4,382 acres and 50% containment.

In addition to evacuations and closures previously reported on Outposts, the community of Old El Portal has been evacuated, and Yosemite View Lodge, located outside the west entrance of the park, is now closed.

Although visitors may experience delays on area roads due to firefighting operations, much of the park is open.

"There are still many areas unaffected by the wildfire, for example Tuolumne Meadows, accessed from the east off Highway 395,"  said park spokeswoman Vicky Mates.

For updated fire information, visitors can call (209) 372-0327, (209) 372-0480, or (209) 372-0669 daily during business hours or visit www.inciweb.org.

-- Kelly Burgess

Photo: Fire burns on a hillside in the lower valley at Yosemite National Park. Credit: Mark Duncan / Associated Press