Air quality decreases as Yosemite fire pumps out the smoke

Federal fire mapping indicates a blaze burning southwest of Yosemite has grown to nearly 4,000 acres, and Carson Valley has the smoke to prove it.

The Fire Information for Resource Management System shows the Washburn Fire is actively burning in the Sierra foothills.

Sensor readings from fire.airnow.gov shows smoke is at unhealthy levels in parts of Carson Valley, including Minden, the northern Ranchos and near Woodfords as of 6 a.m. today.

According to the site, a plume of smoke 100 miles long is drifting due north to Carson Valley, tinting the sunrise orange on Saturday morning.

Reported on Thursday near Washburn Trail in Yosemite National Park’s Mariposa Grove, the fire has resulted in evacuations.

Officially, the fire is 703 acres in size, according to the Park Service with no report of containment.

Dead and fallen trees are burning, increasing the smoke coming from the fire.

Further north, the 4,500-acre Electra fire burning south of Jackson has been 70 percent contained.

Authorities seeking information on the fire’s cause have established a tip line at 1-800-468-4408. Anyone on Electra Road around 3:44 p.m. July 4 who has information related to the fire is encouraged to call.

Fire restrictions went into effect on Saturday on the Eldorado National Forest under Forest Order 03-22-12. Wood and charcoal fires will be restricted to metal fire rings and grills in designated developed recreation sites listed in the order on Exhibit A. All other campfires are prohibited until the end of fire season.

"We appreciate the cooperation of residents and visitors who help prevent human caused wildfires by following these fire restrictions," said Forest Fire Management Officer Nickie Johnny. "Everyone needs to be careful with anything that can spark a wildfire. If you see an abandoned or illegal fire, call 911 or the nearest ranger station. It is also important to understand that there is still fire danger within the Caldor Fire perimeter. Areas that have burned have potential to burn again."