8/7/16 Bybee Creek Fire Update

The Level 1 Evacuation Notice for Rim Village and Park Headquarters was lifted today, August 7, at 8 a.m. The entire length of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), including the alternate route along the Rim Trail, also reopened at this time. 

West Rim Drive, from the intersection of Munson Valley Road and West Rim Drive (near Rim Village) to North Junction, will remain closed through the weekend to protect fire personnel and equipment as firefighters continue to work on the fire. The road will reopen on Monday, August 8, at 8 a.m.

The Bybee Creek Fire is 59% percent contained and 1,072 acres as of Sunday morning. On Saturday firefighters on the ground and in the air continued to secure, hold, and improve line on the western edge of the fire. With the assistance of helicopter support, firefighters stopped the spread of a small spot fire close to the containment line. Fire operations will continue in the area today as crews patrol and strengthen existing containment lines. Firefighters will also work with National Park Service resource advisors to initiate fire suppression repair work. 

Following successful firing operations earlier in the week, fire containment has continued to increase. Recent weather has tested lines the firefighting crews put in place, and with stable weather predicted in the next few days, fire managers have determined there is no imminent threat to Rim Village. Firefighters previously assigned to structure protection in the Village have been released and, as firefighting objectives are accomplished, resources are being demobilized and made available for other fires.  

Visitors to the park may encounter firefighters and fire equipment, and may see or hear aircraft. Smoke may also be visible from the road or trails as unburned pockets of vegetation continue to smolder. Hikers on the PCT and Rim Trail are encouraged to stay on roads and trails and use caution when re-entering any burned wildland area. Walking through burned areas may pose hazards. White ash may indicate deep pockets of heat where roots and ground vegetation continue to burn below ground level.

Fire Restrictions: Crater Lake National Park implemented Level 1 fire restrictions at midnight July 31, 2016. For more information visit: http://bit.ly/2b8gNfz