Share
The U.S. Forest Service announced Monday afternoon that it is temporarily closing the Southern and Sierra Nevada National Forests in California because of the rapidly expanding wildfires.
The temporary closures became effective at 5 p.m. Monday.
Randy Moore, the regional forester, said in a social media video that the closures were due to the significant winds, extreme heat, and dry vegetation confronting firefighters battling blazes throughout the state.
He said the closures were necessary for public and firefighter safety.
“I’m aware that these decisions will cause inconveniences to some,” Moore said. “But in the name of safety, which is a core value of the U.S. Forest Service, I really feel that this is the right decision for the right reason at the right time. I want to thank you for your continuing support in these challenging times.”
Firefighters Face ‘Unprecedented, Dangerous Conditions’
Moore described the conditions as “unprecedented” and “dangerous.”
Said Moore: “Our firefighting resources are stretched to the limit.”
The national forests under temporary closure: Sierra, Sequoia, Stanislaus, Inyo, Los Padres, Angeles, San Bernardino, and Cleveland.
In addition, the use of all ignition sources is prohibited in all national forests in California.
All Developed Campgrounds, Day-Use Sites Closed
Moore also said that the Forest Service was closing all developed campground and day-use sites in the state.
“These decisions will be reevaluated daily as conditions change,” Moore said.
Recreation Need to Know!
Randy Moore, Regional Forester, speaks to public and firefighter safety as the Forest Service temporarily closes
Southern and Sierra Nevada National Forests in California, also adding prohibitions.#R5FireNews pic.twitter.com/MjUAkVps8I— USFS Fire-California (@R5_Fire_News) September 7, 2020
RELATED TOPICS:
Trump’s Potential VP Pick Boasts About Executing Puppy
19 hours ago
Trita Parsi: Blind Support for Israel Erodes Western Democracies
19 hours ago
Fresno Trash Hauler’s Response to Overpayments: We Followed the City’s Rules
20 hours ago
Which Six QBs Were Selected in the Top 12 of the NFL Draft?
20 hours ago
Nuggets Close to Sweeping Lakers After Game 3 Win
20 hours ago
Jose Ramirez: ‘I Want to Make a Statement and Put on a Show’
21 hours ago
Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s 6 Shutout Innings Help Dodgers Finish Sweep, Defeat Nats 2-1
22 hours ago
The 49ers Add Florida Receiver Ricky Pearsall With the 30th Draft Pick
22 hours ago
Political Stunt, Egg on His Face, Personal Vendetta. Who’s Fresno DA Talking About?
22 hours ago
California Legislation Wants to Uncover the ‘Hidden Homicides’ of Domestic Violence