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From the maps the rangers handed out tonight (Monday), it appears as though the entire south face of the mountain has been burned, right up to the base of the knob and about 2/3 of the way around it, sparing some of the north side. This includes the cliffs with the overlooks I photographed on October 23; even some of the fence rails at the overlooks were destroyed. The fire also reached the top of the big dome itself. The park will be closed for at least two weeks after the fires are out, so park personnel can assess any remaining danger, clean up the mess, and repair the fences.

This was taken three weeks ago, looking down on countryside the near part of which is now in ashes. The rangers said there will be no serious damage to trees because the fire was low level. I will reserve judgment until I can get there and see for myself.

Thank you, Eileen! Everyone is praying for rain. If we can get one good soak, the situation will be much improved. However, looking at the radar, right now we are getting only a few sprinkles and it doesn't look as though there is anything better coming.

Thank you, Bernard, Carol, and Julie! Firefighters have bulldozed a line most of the way around the base of the mountain, which is holding so far. We got about 1/2" of welcome rain overnight, which should help. However, the skies are clearing and winds beginning to pick up again, so the situation is not fully resolved. Also, that bulldozed line will need to be rehabilitated... From the mouth of one ranger who was at the meeting last night, they do not consider this fire a calamity (collective gasp from the citizen audience) and promise that the park will look much better by spring. Thanks everybody for your concern!