Yosemite National Park closed due to damage from strong winds

Structures and vehicles were damaged

Yosemite NP wind damage
Yosemite NP wind damage, Jan. 19, 2021. NPS photo by Lindsay Stevenson

Very strong winds Tuesday morning January 19 blew down numerous large trees in Yosemite National Park causing significant damage to structures and vehicles. Photos show crushed pickup trucks, a damaged front end loader, and an impacted structure. A tree that was adjacent to a road damaged a road and a culvert as the roots tore through the pavement as it blew over. Power lines were also affected.

The park was closed Tuesday and will likely remain closed until Friday morning, the park announced, as employees conduct damage assessments, repair facilities, and clear trees. Thankfully no injuries have been reported as a result of the strong winds.

One of the photos showing a damaged structure was taken at Wawona south of Foresta.

A weather station at Crane Flat north of Forresta recorded a 53 mph wind gust Tuesday morning, while 35 mph gusts occurred at both Wawona and El Portal.

Yosemite NP wind damage
Yosemite NP wind damage, Jan. 19, 2021. NPS photo by Lindsay Stevenson
Yosemite NP wind damage
Building in Wawona damaged by tree that fell during Mono winds on January 19, 2021.. NPS photo by Lindsay Stevenson
Yosemite NP wind damage
Yosemite NP wind damage, Jan. 19, 2021. NPS photo by Lindsay Stevenson
Yosemite NP wind damage
Yosemite NP wind damage, Jan. 19, 2021. NPS photo by Lindsay Stevenson

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Author: Bill Gabbert

After working full time in wildland fire for 33 years, he continues to learn, and strives to be a Student of Fire.

One thought on “Yosemite National Park closed due to damage from strong winds”

  1. Hey Bill,

    Just wanted to say how much I enjoy this newsletter. I read it all the time. Thanks so much for this excellent reporting and updating of fire conditions, politics, fire fighter safety, and all the other things you report on. I appreciate being kept up on what’s happening in the world of wild fire.

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