Published: August 8, 2023, 04:19h.
Last updated: August 8, 2023, 04:19h.
The massive wildfire that spans across California and Nevada is currently 93% contained, according to the latest update.
Known as the York Fire, it has affected 93,078 acres in California and Nevada, with over 9,100 acres in Nevada’s Clark County, as reported by Inciweb, a federal website.
The fire has also spread to the vicinity of Nevada’s Avi Kwa Ame national monument, as confirmed by the U.S. Forest Service to the Orange County Register.
The monument, named after Avi Kwa Ame or “Spirit Mountain,” holds great cultural significance for the Yuman tribes and was designated as a monument earlier this year.
Firefighters are currently working to extinguish remaining hot spots in the wildfire, with full containment expected by August 14.
The blaze started on July 28 in California’s Mojave National Preserve and spread to Clark County in Nevada. It is considered to be California’s most devastating wildfire of the year.
Closure Order
The Mojave National Preserve issued a limited closure order in the wildfire-affected area on Sunday to ensure public safety.
The area impacted by the fire presents hazards such as falling limbs, damaged trees, and compromised roads and bridges. Hot ash and other dangers still exist in the affected region.
The extensive fire also poses a threat to the ecosystem and the survival of California’s iconic Joshua trees.
During the fire, fire whirls, or fire tornadoes, were observed in California’s Mojave National Preserve. These phenomena are created by flames and smoke.
The environmental impact of the fire was noticeable in the Las Vegas Valley, where the smoke and haze caused reduced visibility and some flight delays at Harry Reid International Airport.
Several areas in Clark County also experienced deteriorating air quality and health issues related to the fire.
Reports indicate incidents of asthma, respiratory problems, sore throats, headaches, and nausea linked to the fire, as stated by Las Vegas TV station KLAS.
Safety Precautions
Officials from the Mojave National Preserve advise individuals in the affected areas to take certain precautions, including:
- Being mindful of fire crews, equipment, and helicopter operations.
- Remaining vigilant for washed-out roads or missing culverts.
- Avoiding standing burned vegetation that could fall.
- Avoiding travel into upper Caruthers Canyon.
- Limiting driving speed to a maximum of 25 mph.
- Reporting any unsafe roads or hazardous conditions to government officials at 760-252-6100 or email [email protected], providing photographs and GPS coordinates if possible.