Firefighters in California were working to contain three wildfires on Sunday, with the Dome Fire in Yosemite National Park continuing to grow while crews began repairing suppression lines at the lightning-caused Lucas Fire.
The Dome Fire had expanded to 2,667 acres by Sunday morning, up from 2,384 acres on Saturday. Yosemite National Park remains open, although the Chilnualna Falls Trail and nearby areas have been closed because of fire-related hazards.
Smoke was affecting communities around Wawona and El Portal, according to the latest operational report. The National Park Service said the Dome Fire was first reported on September 15, north of Chilnualna Falls, and warned of falling trees, hot ash, poor visibility and respiratory problems in the closure area. ([nps.gov](https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/news/dome-fire-update-september-15-2026.htm?utm_source=openai))
There was more positive news from the Lucas Fire, where lightning has been confirmed as the cause. Crews have moved into suppression-repair work and begun demobilising, although some evacuation orders remain in force inside the fire perimeter.
The fire, near the Lake and Mendocino county line in Potter Valley, was recorded by CAL FIRE at 4,128 acres and 67% contained in its latest available incident update. Three structures had been destroyed, while roads and trails in parts of the Hunter Point and Middle Creek area remained closed. ([fire.ca.gov](https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2026/9/10/lucas-fire/updates/4b31ea7f-757c-464c-93d1-1a74792aaa75))
The Timber Fire in Monterey County was described as active but moderated. Crews were patrolling, monitoring isolated heat and repairing damage caused by suppression operations, while evacuation orders and warnings remained in place in parts of the incident area.
The fire has been burning in steep, rugged terrain where access is difficult, with authorities continuing to prioritise the protection of communities and the Highway 1 corridor. CAL FIRE said earlier updates that evacuation restrictions remained under review as conditions changed. ([fire.ca.gov](https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2026/8/8/timber-fire?utm_source=openai))
