Natural History Wanderings

Yosemite National Park has announced

Winds in the Yosemite area have shifted and caused an increased impact from the Rim Fire in the area. Heavy smoke is now visible south of the Tioga Road, including in Yosemite Valley and the Wawona area. Visitors to the area should avoid extended strenuous physical activities outdoors. Additionally, those that are sensitive to air quality impacts should avoid going outside in Yosemite. This Yosemite Conservancy webcam image is from this afternoon at Ahwahnee Meadow (view current webcams at http://www.nps.gov/yose/photosmultimedia/webcams.htm). (The fire is not burning in or adjacent to Yosemite Valley.)