Mariposa, CA…The “Motor” Fire is now 60% Contained and Hwy 140 into the Yosemite National Park is now reopened.  All evacuations have been lifted and if you need to access the Park from the Merced way it is now easier to do so.  The latest fire update is below..

Summary

The Motor Fire started August 25, 2011 at approximately 12:30pm on Hwy 140, along the Merced River and near Cedar Lodge. This fire is located in very steep, rugged terrain making access difficult. The South Central Sierra Interagency Incident Management Team assumed command of the fire on August 26, 2011.

Fire Update

Today fire crews will continue to build containment lines on the east side of the fire and reinforce other containment lines built over the past few days. Five helicopters are assigned to the fire and will assist with extinguishing hot spots.

Highway 140 was reopened this morning at 6:00 a.m. to all traffic. Firefighters and equipment will remain along Hwy 140 and in the communities. Travelers are advised to please use caution when driving along these routes.

The Sierra and Stanislaus National Forest, Yosemite National Park, and the South Central Sierra Incident Management Team would like to extend our thanks to the many cooperators who assisted us during the Motor Fire. Understanding the economical impacts of closing Highway 140, the California Highway Patrol, Mariposa County Sheriff’s Department, Mariposa County Fire Department, and Cal Trans were instrumental in working with residents and visitors to ensure public safety. Through all cooperators working closely with both forests, the park, and the management team, we were able to lift the evacuation order and open Highway 140 to ensure the safety of all residents and the public.

Evacuations

All evacuations orders have been lifted.

Closures

Stanislaus Forest Road 1S12 is closed from Yosemite Park Boundary to Five Corners.